Hawaii Reels from Historic Flooding, Damage Exceeds $1 Billion
Hawaii is assessing the extensive damage left by the worst flooding the islands have seen in more than 20 years. Heavy rains and floodwater forced thousands on the North Shore of Oahu to evacuate over the weekend and triggered evacuation orders for parts of Maui. Floodwater lifted houses and cars, inundated farms, and swept through grocery stores, leaving behind a thick layer of mud.
Hawaii’s governor, Josh Green, stated during a press conference on Friday that the storms had caused at least $1 billion in damages.
Dam Threat Subsides, Rescue Efforts Continue
At the height of the storm, officials were concerned the 85ft, 120-year-old Wahiawa dam could fail, potentially endangering thousands. Still, that threat has since subsided as water levels have fallen, according to Molly Pierce, a spokesperson for Oahu’s department of emergency management. More than 200 people were rescued from the floodwaters, and no deaths have been reported as of Sunday afternoon.
North Shore Communities Devastated
In the North Shore communities of Waialua and Hale’iwa, many homes in lower-lying areas were covered in mud. Residents sifted through belongings amidst debris-filled yards as crews worked to clear roads.
Kona Lows and Climate Change
Winter storm systems known as “Kona lows,” which bring moisture-laden air, have been responsible for the deluges in the past two weeks. Experts say the intensity and frequency of heavy rains in Hawaii have increased amid human-caused global warming.
Weather Outlook
By Sunday afternoon, the worst of the storms appeared to be over, Hawaii meteorologist Matthew Foster told the Associated Press. The weather shifted from widespread showers to scattered rain across Oahu, Maui County, and Hawaii Island. Less than 5 inches of rain is expected for Hawaii Island, with between 1 to 2 inches in other areas.
Additional flooding could still occur, but on an isolated scale, according to Foster. Drier and more typical March weather is expected by Wednesday as the moisture pushes past the islands.