Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) is continuing to closely monitor the ongoing flooding impacts affecting communities across the Interior following spring breakup and ice jam flooding in the communities of Hughes and Chalkyitsik.
On May 11, Governor Mike Dunleavy issued a State Disaster Declaration in response to the flooding. The declaration activates the State of Alaska’s Individual Assistance, Public Assistance, and Temporary Housing Recovery Programs to help support impacted families, communities, Tribal organizations, and local infrastructure recovery efforts. Registration for the State of Alaska Individual Assistance Program for the 2026 Spring Flood Disaster is now open from May 11 through July 11, 2026.
“TCC has been actively monitoring the flooding situation, working closely with state and local agencies, and coordinating directly with our Tribal leaders to help ensure our communities have the support they need during this difficult time,” said Chief/Chairman Sharon Hildebrand of Tanana Chiefs Conference. “Our hearts are with the families and communities impacted by these floods. Spring breakup can bring so much uncertainty and fear for our villages, especially for those watching the water rise around their homes, schools, and community buildings. We continue to keep the people of Hughes, Chalkyitsik, and all communities across the Interior in our prayers as the ice continues to move. TCC stands ready to support our Tribal communities however we can.”
TCC has been coordinating alongside local leadership, emergency response agencies, and community partners as flood response efforts continue. According to the State Emergency Operations Center, flooding in Hughes impacted homes, the school, and community infrastructure, while flooding in Chalkyitsik affected homes and low-lying areas after rapid water rises caused by ice jams.
As breakup conditions continue across the Interior, TCC is also monitoring flood conditions and watches in several additional communities. Recent reports include flooding concerns in Stevens Village, flood watches for Galena and Fort Yukon, flood advisories for Ruby, and continued monitoring in Hughes as water levels begin to recede following reports that the ice jam has released. Communities along the Yukon River and surrounding waterways are continuing to closely watch river conditions as breakup progresses.
Community members looking for additional flood preparedness, safety, recovery information, or disaster assistance registration can visit:
- State of Alaska Individual Assistance Registration: https://ready.alaska.gov/Recovery/IA
- TCC Flood Preparedness Information: https://www.tananachiefs.org/flood-preparedness/
- Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management: https://ready.alaska.gov/
- National Weather Service Alaska-Pacific River Forecast Center: https://www.weather.gov/aprfc/
As additional communities across Alaska experience flooding during spring breakup, those wishing to support disaster relief efforts across the state can donate through the American Red Cross of Alaska at: https://www.redcross.org/donate/donation.html/