Wasilla steps up

A Red Cross emergency shelter is now operating at the Menard Sports Complex in Wasilla after a multi-family home fire and a severe windstorm displaced Valley residents. The fire hit a multi-family home during the same storm that knocked out power across the Mat-Su Valley.

Families who lost housing arrived at the shelter cold and exhausted. Volunteers had warming stations running before sunrise to meet them.

The windstorm brought outages, debris, and dangerous gusts that made it nearly impossible for many residents to stay in their homes. Crews have been juggling disaster calls while neighbors bring blankets, food, and other supplies to those affected.

The shelter is providing lodging and support for people who had no safe options during the storm, as power outages and hazardous conditions continue across the Mat-Su region.