A devastating landslide in Alaska has left three people dead and three others missing after it struck the Zimovia Highway near Wrangell on Monday evening. The search for the missing individuals is transitioning from an active search to a reactive search, according to Alaskan authorities. The remains of the three deceased were discovered during search and rescue efforts, with a young girl found dead on Monday and the remains of two adults located by a drone operator on Tuesday.

Multiple search efforts, including aerial searches with drones, helicopters, and planes, as well as ground and water-based searches with K9 teams and sonar, have been conducted. However, search teams have now reached all accessible areas without the use of heavy machinery. The Alaska Department of Public Safety, in collaboration with the state's transportation department, will now focus on clearing the roadway and searching for the missing individuals who may be buried in the slide area. The active search may be restarted if new evidence suggests that the missing people could be in specific locations.

While the active search is concluding, the State of Alaska and the Alaska State Troopers remain committed to finding the missing individuals to bring closure to their families and the community. The names of the deceased and missing individuals will be released on Friday.

The area where the landslide occurred experienced heavy rainfall, with over 3 inches of rain falling in the 24 hours leading up to the incident. National Weather Service meteorologist Andy Park stated that the region had been particularly wet on Sunday and Monday, and winds of 61 to 87 mph may have also contributed to the landslides. The Southeast region of Alaska is already prone to debris flows, and factors such as heavy rainfall, rapid snowmelt, and saturated soil increase the risk of such incidents.

Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy has declared a state of emergency in Wrangell due to the effects of the landslide. Meanwhile, the Wrangell community has come together in the aftermath of the disaster. Local residents with private boats have been providing assistance, shuttling fuel and supplies to those in need. Eric Yancey, a nearby resident, used his 75-foot landing craft to rescue approximately 19 people, along with a few dogs, and bring them back to town. Other community members have also stepped up to help, with one individual running to a nearby town to gather supplies for the affected community.

As the search transitions into recovery efforts, the community remains hopeful for the safe recovery of the missing individuals. The landslide serves as a tragic reminder of the dangers posed by natural disasters and the importance of community support during times of crisis.