Posted Monday, January 9, 2012 --- 9:05 a.m.

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) -- Dozens of National Guard troops have arrived in the Alaska fishing village of Cordova by ferry to help dig them out. The Guard says more than 18 feet of snow has fallen in the past weeks, collapsing roofs, triggering avalanches and trapping some people in homes.

Wendy Rainney, who owns the Orca Adventure Lodge, says "There's nowhere to go with the snow because it's piled up so high."

Officials said at least three buildings have collapsed or partially collapsed and six homes are deemed severely stressed by heavy wet snow.

The city has set up a shelter at a local recreation center, but says people leaving homes in avalanche-risky areas have been staying with other residents. A town spokesman says a pet shelter will be set up if necessary.

The entire region has been pummeled by snow, but there is no road access to Cordova, only access by boat and plane.

Copyright 2012. The Associated Press.