Hawaii Faces Catastrophic Flooding: Damage and Rescue Efforts Intensify

Mon Mar 23 2026 23:26:38 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

After experiencing its worst flooding in over two decades, Hawaii is grappling with extensive damage. Over 230 rescues were made as communities work together to recover from this unprecedented disaster.

Hawaii endured its worst flooding since 2004 due to intense storms, damaging hundreds of homes, schools, and a hospital. Governor Josh Green estimates recovery costs may exceed $1 billion. Rescue efforts saved over 230 individuals as communities mobilize to clean up thick volcanic mud and assess the damage. The aging Wahiawa dam posed a significant threat during the flooding, raising concerns over public safety. Support initiatives are in place for affected households, encouraging donations to recovery funds.

HONOLULU (AP) — Hawaii has faced its worst flooding in over twenty years, causing widespread devastation across the islands. Homes have been swept off their foundations, cars pulled from driveways, and properties inundated with thick, reddish volcanic mud.

Crews continuously assess the damage, indicating hundreds of homes have been impacted along with schools and a local hospital. Thankfully, no deaths have been recorded, although over 230 individuals required rescue from rising waters.

This was Hawaii’s worst flooding since 2004

Governor Josh Green has assessed the storm’s financial toll could surpass $1 billion, covering damages to essential infrastructures such as airports and schools. He highlighted that this incident is the most severe flooding since the Manoa floods of 2004.

On Oahu’s North Shore, famously known for big wave surfing, rapid water rise occurred after heavy rain fell on already saturated soil from a previous winter storm. Evacuations were ordered for about 5,500 residents north of Honolulu, with rescues conducted by volunteers using various methods, including surfboards, as waters reached chest-high for some.

Storm systems responsible for severe floods

Officials attribute the deluge to a series of winter storm systems termed “Kona lows,” which bring moisture-laden air. The rainfall exceeded 12 inches in some areas of Oahu, compounding the flooding issue from a previous storm.

Volunteers mobilize for cleanup

During the ongoing response, the Department of Emergency Management reported over 400 damages reported. Residents face a significant cleanup task, with the muddy sediment from the volcanic soil complicating the process.

As concerns grew regarding a potentially dangerous old dam, state officials assessed the aging Wahiawa dam's stability and released guidance during the flooding. The dam, built in 1906, is at risk, potentially resulting in loss of life if it fails.

How to contribute to relief efforts

Governor Green encouraged donations to the Hawaii Community Foundation's Stronger Hawaii Fund, allocated across affected areas, while the Hawaiian Council has initiated the Kako’o Oahu fund for housing and financial support for impacted citizens. “The path to recovery begins now—it cannot wait,” stated Hawaiian Council CEO Kuhio Lewis.

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Associated Press contributed to this report.