Statewide Flood Watch and Evacuations
Hawaii remains under a statewide flood watch following a severe storm that has prompted officials to order evacuations across the islands. Governor Josh Green announced on Saturday that the island of Oahu and parts of Maui County face significant flash flood risks due to the ongoing weather conditions.
This storm is the second major weather event to impact the Hawaiian archipelago within the past week. According to Governor Green, some areas of the state have experienced between 40 to 50 inches (127 cm) of rainfall over the last 10 days. Additional rainfall is expected, with Oahu potentially receiving four to six more inches and parts of Maui forecasted to get between four to 12 inches.
"Don't take this storm lightly," Green said in a video statement. He confirmed that no deaths have been reported so far, although there have been a few serious injuries.
The state has activated a program to assist those displaced by the storm, offering discounted hotel rates to affected residents. In a follow-up statement, Governor Green emphasized that because the ground is already saturated from previous rainfall, it will require much less rain to cause flooding, road closures, and damage.
Damage Estimates and Rescue Efforts
Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi estimated that the damage caused by the storms could exceed $1 billion (£745 million). At a news conference on Friday, he reported that more than 230 people have been rescued so far.
Authorities have issued warnings concerning a dam on Oahu, the state's most populous island, which is at risk of collapse. Mayor Blangiardi urged residents to "stay safe" and "take the storm as seriously as you can." He also commended emergency workers for their efforts to protect the community.
Rising floodwaters have lifted homes and vehicles, leading to evacuation orders for approximately 5,500 people north of Honolulu. Numerous roads across the islands have been closed due to hazardous conditions.
The Honolulu Department of Emergency Management has issued multiple flash flood warnings, advising residents to move to higher ground and avoid flooded areas. Flood watch warnings have also been extended to Maui, Molokai, and The Big Island.
Impact on Infrastructure and Community
Governor Green highlighted the extensive damage caused by the storm, affecting airports, schools, roads, hospitals, and private homes. He described the event as "the largest flood that we've had in Hawaii in 20 years" during a news conference on Friday.
"This is the largest flood that we've had in Hawaii in 20 years," he stated.
The governor urged residents to seek out shelters and designated assembly areas throughout the state to ensure their safety.
Weather Conditions and Historical Context
The storm is associated with a "Kona Low," a slow-moving low-pressure system that draws warm, moisture-rich air across the Hawaiian islands, resulting in heavy rain and flash flooding. Some locations have recorded more than 10 inches of rainfall and winds reaching up to 100 mph (160 km/h).
This severe weather event adds to the challenges faced by the islands, which recently endured the devastating 2023 Lahaina wildfires that resulted in over 100 fatalities.
Additional reporting by BBC Weather.
