Hawaii Flooding: Evacuations, Worst Rainfall in 20 Years
Honolulu, Hawai’i – Governor Josh Green has formally requested a Major Disaster Declaration from the President of the United States following devastating Kona Low storm systems that have brought catastrophic flooding, landslides, and widespread infrastructure damage across the state. The request, submitted under the Stafford Act, comes after a second wave of intense rainfall impacted Oahu on Monday, exacerbating existing damage and prompting evacuations.
The initial storms began impacting Hawai’i on March 10, with a second system arriving on March 19. These consecutive weather events have affected every county in the state, stretching emergency response capabilities to their limit, according to Governor Green. “These storms have impacted every county in our state and stretched our emergency response capabilities,” Green stated in a news release issued Sunday. “This request is about getting our communities the support they necessitate to recover quickly and safely.”
Recent flooding on Oahu has been particularly severe, with concerns spreading beyond the North Shore to areas like Manoa and the Leeward coast. Heavy rain on Monday led to flooded roads in Manoa, where a swollen stream threatened nearby homes. The mayor of Honolulu, Rick Blangiardi, noted the rapid shift in the situation, stating that just days prior, the focus was on cleanup from the initial storms, but now concerns extend across the entire island.
Damage is concentrated on Oahu’s North Shore, particularly in Waialua and Haleʻiwa, where homes have been displaced. A sinkhole opened on Kalanianaʻole Highway near Makapuʻu on Monday, forcing its closure. Governor Green also highlighted the significant damage to Kula Hospital on Maui, stating that its replacement will likely cost hundreds of millions of dollars.
Governor Green has requested a federal cost share of up to 90% to support recovery efforts. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been brought in early to conduct damage assessments alongside state teams, streamlining the process and avoiding duplication of effort. State reserve personnel have also been deployed to assist with assessments across all counties.
Officials are also warning of potential public health risks associated with floodwaters, including possible sewage contamination and the presence of bacteria like enterococcus and staph. Governor Green cautioned residents about these risks.
The governor indicated he plans to seek additional, immediate support from the state Legislature to address the escalating costs of recovery. As of Tuesday, the state awaits a response to the disaster declaration request and continues to assess the full extent of the damage.