Hawaii Grapples with Worst Flooding in Two Decades as Powerful Storms Force Mass Evacuations
Hawaii is enduring its most severe flooding in over twenty years, as a relentless storm system batters the islands, triggering dangerous and potentially life-threatening inundation. Thousands of residents, including Hollywood star Jason Momoa, have been compelled to evacuate their homes amidst widespread power outages and impassable roads.
The epicentre of the crisis appears to be Oahu, where rising waters have prompted mass evacuations near the Wahiawa dam. Hawaii officials have issued urgent orders for over 5,000 people to leave the area, citing an immediate risk to the 120-year-old structure, which is reportedly at risk of “imminent failure.” Water levels at the dam have surged dramatically, rising from 79 feet to 84 feet in less than 24 hours, bringing it to within six feet of its capacity. The islands have been deluged with up to 12 inches of rain in some areas.
Jason Momoa, the “Aquaman” star who hails from Hawaii, took to social media to share his experience and concern. He revealed that he had to flee his home on the North Shore due to a loss of power and was seeking safety with his family. “We’re safe now but there’s a lot of people who weren’t, so sending all our love,” Momoa stated, expressing his solidarity with those less fortunate. He also posted harrowing footage of the flooding near his father’s property, describing the devastation as “crazy” and urging his followers to prioritise their safety.
Widespread Flood Watches and Warnings Issued Across the Islands
The National Weather Service has placed most of Hawaii under a flood watch, which is expected to remain in effect through Sunday afternoon. This advisory covers Oahu, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, and the Big Island. A more serious flash flood warning has been issued for Maui, indicating that flooding is either imminent or already underway. This contrasts with a flood watch, which signifies that conditions are favourable for flooding and that residents should remain prepared. While flood watches have since been cancelled for Kauai County and flash flood warnings for Lanai, the threat across other parts of the state persists.
The severe weather has had a significant impact on daily life and events across the islands. Momoa himself was forced to cancel a planned music event for the weekend due to the dangerous conditions. The actor, born in Honolulu, described the past few weeks as “heavy” for his home state, highlighting the widespread disruption caused by the storms and persistent rain.
Communities Devastated by Flooding and Landslides
“The storms, the flooding, the constant rain across Oahu have affected so many of our people especially those already facing hardship,” Momoa shared on Instagram. He went on to express his dismay at seeing families displaced, communities struggling, and the unhoused population bearing the brunt of the disaster. Emphasising the spirit of “aloha,” Momoa encouraged locals to look out for their neighbours during this critical period, stating, “That’s what aloha is. It’s showing up for each other when it matters most.”
Life-threatening flooding has been reported in communities across Oahu, including Haleiwa and Waialua, as up to 12 inches of rain have fallen. Floodwaters, coupled with landslides and downed trees, have rendered many roads impassable, severely hindering movement and rescue efforts. All routes leading out of Waialua were reportedly at risk of failure, with authorities urging any remaining residents to evacuate before the situation deteriorates further.
Emergency Response and Impact on Infrastructure
Fortunately, as of Saturday afternoon, Hawaii Governor Josh Green reported no fatalities. However, he did acknowledge “a few serious injuries” and confirmed that over 230 people had been rescued. Approximately 10 individuals have been hospitalised with hypothermia. Governor Green described the situation as “a major threat to our people and to our state.”
The economic impact of the flooding is expected to be substantial, with estimates suggesting damages could exceed $1 billion. Airports, homes, roads, and schools have all sustained damage. In response to the crisis, six evacuation shelters have been established, accommodating 131 people overnight, according to the Honolulu Department of Emergency Management.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is actively monitoring the severe flooding and has deployed teams to the affected islands to provide support and assist in safeguarding lives and communities.
The storm system, identified as a Kona storm, has also led to widespread power outages. As of Saturday, approximately 6,400 customers in Oahu were without electricity, including around 4,200 on the North Shore, the area where Jason Momoa sought refuge. This marks the second significant storm to impact Hawaii in as many weeks, following a previous Kona storm that affected the state between March 10th and March 16th.
