Flooding in Alaska, September 4 to 5, 2001

A strong low, remnants of an old tropical weather system (with help from typhoon "Wutip"), re-developed near Adak midday Monday along an old front. The low then moved between Saint Matthew Island and Nunivak Island early Tuesday. Gale force southwesterly winds were observed along the south side of the low. Coastal flooding potential was highlighted during periods of high tide as early as Tuesday and Wednesday.Water reached close to vegetation line along parts of the southwest Alaska Coast. Reports from a pilot, relayed from the King Salmon Weather Service Office, indicated "...evidence of beach erosion around the Kvichak Bay area...".Damage in both areas was relatively minor...involving several swamped boats and minor damage to boat electrical systems and engines. Tug "Mercury" was lost in heavy weather in Bristol Bay. The 130' barge it towed was intentionally grounded on soft sand/gravel beach at Cape Menshikof. No debris or sheen from tug reported, however a life raft was sighted in area.Coast Guard Sitrep read...TUG MERCURY T.O.W AND 130-FOOT BARGE ADRIFT -94 NM SOUTHWEST OF KING SALMONMSO Anchorage: The Tug Mercury and barge in tow were en route Seward from Naknek and encountered heavy weather. The Tug had to release the barge in the vicinity of Ugashik Bay. The barge had approximately 2000 gallons of diesel fuel on board in portable storage tanks strapped down on top of the barge. Tug lost power due to flooding and vessel crew had to be rescued via Coast Guard helicopter. Pen Air located the adrift barge 1.5 NM off the Cinder River (a critical habitat area). A C-130 over flew to the last known position of the Tug Mercury and did not see any signs of the vessel or any signs of pollution. The Tug Mercury is reported to have 400-500 gallons of diesel aboard. The owner is making arrangements to recover the barge in the morning. MSO Anchorage is investigating the case.Later SITREPs indicate the tug was presumed to have sunk.