Hawaii Storm Damage: $1 Billion and Rising | Governor Update

Honolulu – Hawaii is facing an estimated $1 billion in damage after being battered by two consecutive Kona low storms within a week, Governor Josh Green announced Friday evening. The flooding, described as the worst the state has experienced in 20 years, prompted more than 230 rescues across Oahu, officials said.

The second storm arrived Thursday evening and continued into Friday morning, delivering as much as 12 inches of rain to some areas of Oahu. Floodwaters overflowed waterways, entered homes, and made roadways impassable, particularly along the North Shore, stranding hundreds of residents. Despite the intensity of the rainfall, no deaths or missing persons were reported as of Friday afternoon, according to Governor Green.

“This is a serious storm,” Green stated during a press conference. “The storm is not over.” He indicated that the damage extends to public and private infrastructure, including schools, roads, and airports. A major hospital on Maui also sustained damage, according to the governor.

Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi highlighted the challenges posed by already saturated ground from the previous week’s Kona low storm, making conditions more treacherous as new rainfall struggles to be absorbed. The Hawaii National Guard deployed teams to evacuate or rescue residents in Haleiwa and Waialua, beginning around 2:30 a.m. Friday. Using Black Hawk helicopters, they also rescued 32 children and 15 adults from a spring break camping area.

A total of 195 soldiers and airmen were activated, and 21 high-water vehicle teams were positioned statewide, according to Maj. Gen. Stephen Logan, the Hawaii Adjutant General. Logan stated that rescue and search operations would continue throughout impacted North Shore communities on Saturday.

Department of Transportation Director Ed Sniffen explained that crews have been focused on managing flooding and clearing drains, with limited options for pumping water during active rainfall. Recovery efforts will be delayed until the rains subside.

Governor Green stated his chief of staff has been in contact with the White House, and federal partners have indicated their support. The extent of that support remains unconfirmed. A flood watch will remain in effect through Sunday evening.