Hawaii Island Storm Damage: Hundreds Report Losses, Recovery Efforts Underway

HILO, Hawai’i Island – Hawai’i County Mayor Kimo Alameda has declared a state of emergency as the island braces for the impact of a second Kona low in as many weeks, following hundreds of damage reports from the first storm. Alameda stated the county has received over 300 damage assessments from residents and nearly 100 from commercial properties, according to Hawaii News Now.

The declaration, made on March 20, formally invokes state statutes related to emergency management, granting the county’s Civil Defense Agency expanded authority under the Mayor’s direction. The move comes as crews continue to assess damage and clear debris from the initial Kona low, which brought severe flooding to Naalehu, Waiohinu, and wind damage across Puna, leaving an unknown number of customers without power as of March 20, according to earlier reports.

The first Kona low generated storm coverage from March 13 through 16, impacting the south and west sides of the island most severely. During that storm, the county responded to 25 to 30 calls for life-saving assistance, with 18 to 20 people rescued in the Ka‘ū and South Kona Districts, according to Hawai’i County Assistant Fire Chief Ola‘i Carvalho. One incident involved a tree falling on a motorcyclist on Highway 190, attributed to high winds.

Alameda expressed particular concern for the west side of the island, noting the already saturated ground conditions. “The west side, it’s so saturated. It’s gonna be a concern if this new system takes shape into a larger system,” he said. The potential for landslides remains high due to loose debris and saturated soil.

In response to the ongoing situation, the county has adjusted pickup schedules and expanded access to its 20-plus transfer stations and green waste facilities to facilitate debris disposal. Public works crews are actively clearing debris from roads, prioritizing main routes. Residents can report damage to the county through a dedicated online portal.

The county is coordinating closely with Governor Josh Green and other county leaders to ensure a unified response and recovery effort. Alameda described a “real good collaboration” with the Governor’s team and fellow mayors, emphasizing frequent communication regarding the evolving situation. A flood watch remains in effect for Hawaii Island through today, March 23, and a winter storm warning is as well in effect for the summits, forecasting heavy snow and strong winds.

Alameda stated the county is now shifting into “full recovery mode” following the passage of the second Kona low.