Hawaii Faces Severe Flooding Amid Additional Rainfall Warnings

Sat Mar 21 2026 14:10:13 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Hawaii grapples with its worst flooding in over two decades, prompting evacuations and concerns over aging infrastructure as heavy rains continue to impact the region.

Hawaii has encountered significant flooding, the worst since 2004, driven by heavy rains following a recent winter storm. With 5,500 residents evacuated and estimated damages possibly exceeding $1 billion, officials are particularly worried about the potential failure of the 120-year-old Wahiawa dam. Although no casualties have been reported, emergency crews continue rescue operations while rain forecasts predict more precipitation in the coming days.

HONOLULU (AP) — Hawaii is experiencing its worst flooding incident in over 20 years, exacerbated by heavy rains on already saturated ground. Officials warn that additional precipitation is expected over the upcoming weekend.

The flooding has severely impacted Oahu's North Shore, a globally recognized surfing destination, forcing evacuations of 5,500 residents due to rising waters that threatened homes and vehicles. Concerns are particularly focused on the 120-year-old Wahiawa dam, which officials fear may fail amid the extreme weather conditions.

Governor Josh Green has indicated that the potential damages from the flooding could exceed $1 billion, affecting a wide range of infrastructure including airports, schools, roads, and residential areas.

“This situation is going to have significant consequences for our state,” Governor Green stated in a news briefing.

The National Weather Service has placed most of the state under a flood watch, with specific flash flood warnings in Haleiwa and Waialua. Despite the dire circumstances, no fatalities have been reported, although around ten individuals have sought medical attention for hypothermia.

Rescue operations are ongoing, with the National Guard assisting in airlifts for individuals stranded at camps on higher ground, while officials work to assess the damage further.

The current flooding crisis is attributed to intense rainfall, with some areas receiving 8 to 12 inches of rain overnight, and the highest peaks like Kaala recording nearly 16 inches in just one day.

As the rain continues to fall, Governor Green reassured that federal assistance is being coordinated with the White House to support the state's recovery efforts.

“There's no doubt the destruction caused is catastrophic,” remarked Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

Many residents remain anxious about the aging infrastructure, particularly the Wahiawa dam, which was constructed in 1906 to support the sugar industry. Recent inspections have characterized the dam as having high hazard potential, and experts caution that its failure would likely result in significant loss of life.

The state has initiated actions to acquire the dam and undertake necessary repairs, yet the process has faced delays. The need for immediate action is critical as more rain looms on the horizon.