AVCP Urges President Trump to Declare National Emergency for Western Alaska
Bethel, Alaska — In the wake of catastrophic damage caused by the remnants of Typhoon Halong, the Association of Village Council Presidents (AVCP) has formally requested President Donald J. Trump to declare a national emergency and deploy immediate federal assistance to Western Alaska.
Representing 56 tribes across the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta, AVCP reports widespread devastation, including entire communities flooded, homes destroyed, power outages, and families stranded. While Governor Mike Dunleavy has issued a state disaster declaration, AVCP emphasizes that the scale of the crisis demands urgent federal intervention.
In a letter submitted to the White House on October 12, AVCP urged the President to:
- Declare a national emergency;
- Deploy federal aid and personnel to the region;
- Establish a Western Alaska Response Center in Bethel;
- Fund public safety officers in every village;
- Invest in permanent federal infrastructure in the Arctic.
“Western Alaska needs your intervention immediately,” said Vivian Korthuis, AVCP CEO. “we are ready to work with you to support our communities. We urge you to declare a national emergency. Send federal aid. Help us protect lives and rebuild our communities and our future.”
AVCP stands ready to partner with federal agencies to implement solutions outlined in its 2024 Public Safety White Paper and ensure no Alaskan is left behind.
Click link below to see letter sent to President Trump on October 12, 2025:
AVCP Typhoon Halong’s Disaster Declaration Letter to President Trump
Click link for Press Release:
AVCP Urges President Trump to Declare National Emergency for Western Alaska
About:
Association of Village Council Presidents: Association of Village Council Presidents (AVCP) is a regional non-profit tribal consortium comprising 56 federally recognized tribes of the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta. AVCP’s region is approximately 55,000 square miles, with a population of 27,000 residing in 48 communities along the Yukon River, Kuskokwim River, and Bering Sea coast. The residents of the region are primarily Yup’ik, Cup’ik, and Athabascan. AVCP is dedicated to supporting the interests of its member tribes, including through community development, education, social services, culturally relevant programs, and advocacy. AVCP promotes self-determination and protection and enhancement of cultural and traditional values. As part of its mission, AVCP has long been committed to advocating for the protection of the Bering Sea and its resources.
