HONOLULU (AP) — Hawaii is experiencing its worst flooding in two decades. Homes are washed away, cars float down streets, and thick reddish volcanic mud covers surfaces.
Crews are still assessing the damage. Hundreds of homes, schools, and even a hospital have been affected. Thankfully, no fatalities have been reported, but over 230 people required rescue. Rain continues in parts of the Big Island, where a flash flood warning is still in effect.
A Storm Like No Other
This flooding is the most serious since 2004, which also saw significant damage in Manoa. Governor Josh Green estimates that the cost may exceed $1 billion, affecting airports, schools, and roads, particularly in Maui.
On Oahu’s North Shore, known for big waves, rain fell heavily after a recent winter storm, saturating the ground. This led to rapid flooding, with waters reaching waist height in some areas. Evacuation orders were issued for thousands, but were later lifted as the situation improved.
Agriculture in Hawaii is taking a big hit, with over $9.4 million in damages reported so far. Oahu farmers alone have faced more than $2.7 million in crop losses.
A Close Call for Residents
Michael McEwan and his wife, Heather Nakahara, returned to their Waialua home to find it covered in red silt. The flooding trapped them and their pets for eight hours. Thankfully, they were rescued by firefighters who guided them through the water with a rope.
The red volcanic earth stains everything. McEwan noted, “It’s full of iron, so it stains everything brownish-yellow.”
Severe Rainfall Patterns
The flooding followed over a week of heavy rainfall. Some areas in Oahu recorded 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm) in just days. This deluge was fueled by “Kona lows,” storm systems that bring moist air from the south. Experts note that heavy rainfall in Hawaii has increased due to climate change.
The worst of the storms seems to be easing, but the cleanup is just beginning.
Community Response and Ongoing Concerns
More than 400 reports of damage have been logged. In some neighborhoods, residents must wade through silt to access their homes. This mud, with its rusty hue, is particularly challenging to clean.
Meanwhile, the 120-year-old Wahiawa dam, which posed a risk of failure, has been a concern. Built to boost sugar production, it has faced scrutiny for safety issues in recent years.
Local groups are already mobilizing to assist those affected. Hawaii Community Foundation’s Stronger Hawaii Fund is collecting donations, while the Hawaiian Council has launched their Kako’o Oahu initiative to provide housing and financial support.
As the community comes together to aid those in need, residents reflect on a disaster that has left lasting marks—both on their homes and in their hearts.
For more information on supporting recovery efforts, visit the Hawaii Community Foundation or the Kako’o Oahu initiative.
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Hawaii, Josh Green, General news, Floods, Domestic News, HI State Wire, Education funding, Molly Pierce, Weather, Storms, Michael McEwan, Dam and levee breaches, Heather Nakahara, U.S. news
