Thousands evacuated as Hawaii faces worst flooding in 20 years

More than 230 people have been rescued so far, the authorities said on Friday.

Hawaii is experiencing its worst flooding in over 20 years, driven by intense rains on already saturated land, primarily affecting Oahu’s North Shore and prompting evacuation orders for 5,500 residents. Officials warned of a potential failure of the 120-year-old Wahiawa dam, which showed dangerously high water levels. Over 200 people have been rescued, including 72 children and adults from a camp, and at least 10 were hospitalized with hypothermia. Despite the widespread devastation, no deaths have been reported. Governor Josh Green estimated the damage could exceed $1 billion, impacting homes, infrastructure, and a Maui hospital. More rain, 6–8 inches forecasted in the coming days, could exacerbate the situation. The flooding, linked to "Kona low" winter storms, is intensified by climate change, experts say. The aging Wahiawa dam, originally built in 1906, has had a history of safety concerns, and although a state acquisition is planned for repair, it remains unresolved. Federal assistance has been promised as Hawaii continues emergency operations and damage assessments.

Severe flash flooding on the Hawaiian island of Oahu has prompted the rescue of over 230 people and forced the evacuation of around 5,500 residents. Torrential rain, partly driven by a "Kona low" weather system, has caused widespread damage—pushing homes off foundations, submerging vehicles, and damaging infrastructure. Authorities are especially concerned about the Wahiawa Dam, a 120-year-old structure deemed at high risk of failure. Within 24 hours, the dam's water level neared its maximum capacity, though it later began to recede. Governor Josh Green stated the disaster could result in over $1 billion in damages. While no deaths have been reported, about 10 people were treated for hypothermia. Rescue operations, including airlifts of 72 children and adults from a youth camp, continue amid logistical challenges. Flooding also triggered concern on Maui, especially in Lahaina, an area devastated by wildfire in 2023.

Historic floods in Hawaii, caused by intense rainfall on already saturated soil from prior storms, have led to over 2,000 people losing power and an estimated $1 billion in damages. The flooding, considered the worst in over two decades, displaced thousands and required the rescue of more than 200 individuals, though no fatalities have been reported. Power outages primarily affected areas such as Waialua on Oahu’s North Shore and parts of Maui County, though crews were working to restore service. A boil water notice remains in effect for North Shore communities. Governor Josh Green highlighted extensive damage to infrastructure including hospitals, schools, and roads. While fears of a 120-year-old dam failing have diminished, monitoring continues. The storms, part of a recent series of “Kona lows,” highlight a rise in extreme weather events linked to climate change. Meteorologists report the worst is over, with drier weather expected by midweek, although localized flooding may still occur.