Archaeological Treasure Uncovered as Storm Ravages Alaska Coast

Thu Oct 30 2025 18:10:22 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Severe storm impact in Alaska brings to light thousands of ancient artifacts from a significant Yup'ik archaeological site, interrupting centuries of preservation and raising concerns over climate change.

Following the destructive winds and storm surge of Typhoon Halong, an archaeological site near Quinhagak, Alaska has been severely impacted. Numerous ancient artifacts, including wooden masks and tools, were washed away, prompting urgent recovery efforts. Archaeologists estimate that up to 100,000 pieces may be lost, destabilizing this vital cultural repository. Experts emphasize the ongoing threats to the site's integrity, primarily due to climate change, as they aim to recover the artifacts before winter fully sets in.

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — A fragment of a mask that had been preserved in permafrost for centuries now lies exposed along the beach of Quinhagak, a Yup'ik community devastated by recent storms. The low-tide reveal, paired with remnants of the storm, has scattered hundreds of artifacts—wooden spoons, toys, and fishing lures—across the shoreline.

While Quinhagak was spared the worst of Typhoon Halong's wrath, it still faced significant repercussions. The storm's winds and surge have eroded dozens of feet of shoreline and disrupted an archaeological site integral to Yup'ik culture. Approximately 1,000 artifacts were recovered, but archaeologists estimate that as many as 100,000 pieces might still be missing, dissolving the history preserved at their feet.

Rick Knecht, an archaeologist at the forefront of the Nunalleq project, expressed the loss as critical. When holes or disturbances occur at the site, it’s akin to reading a book with missing pages; significant parts of history become obscured, he explained. The project has collected the world’s largest assortment of pre-contact Yup'ik artifacts, offering key insights into their way of life prior to external influences.

The original village behind these artifacts met its demise in the 1650s, falling victim to inter-community conflict. Collaborating closely with local elders, Knecht aims to blend traditional knowledge with archaeological practices, preserving their legacy together.

Quinhagak, home to approximately 800 residents, relies fundamentally on subsistence harvesting. As coastal erosion worsens—fuelled by climate change—the community faces imminent threats to infrastructure, including essential sewage systems and housing stability.

The recent storm exacerbated already critical concerns about climate hazards. The excavation, which started in 2007 due to artifact surfacing, now finds itself confronted with accelerated risks from marine erosion. Knecht revealed that what once stood as a protective buffer against the sea has vanished, leaving artifacts precariously exposed.

In the aftermath, recovery efforts are hindered by freezing temperatures, further complicating the logistics of artifact retrieval. Knecht highlighted the painstaking process required to preserve the salvaged artifacts, which involves delicate soaking and specialized conservation techniques.

Despite the challenges, there are plans to revisit the site this coming spring, with hopes of a comprehensive 'rescue excavation'. Knecht likened the situation to 2009, faced with a fresh slate of artifacts emerging from the earth as indications of cultural resilience against the backdrop of environmental change.