Thousands of residents have been forced to evacuate across Hawaii after a powerful storm unleashed widespread flooding, prompting officials to warn of the worst deluge in two decades.
Governor Josh Green said the risk of flash floods remains high, particularly on Oahu and parts of Maui County, as the state stays under a statewide flood watch following the severe weather.
“Don’t take this storm lightly,” Green said in a video statement, noting that while no deaths have been recorded, several serious injuries have occurred.
The storm marks the second major weather event to hit the islands within a week, worsening already dangerous conditions. According to the governor, some areas have recorded between 40 to 50 inches of rainfall over the past 10 days, with more rain expected to fall across the state.
Officials warned that saturated ground conditions mean even moderate rainfall could quickly trigger flash floods, road closures and further damage.
In Honolulu, Mayor Rick Blangiardi said the financial toll of the disaster could exceed $1bn, as emergency responders scramble to contain the crisis.
More than 230 people have already been rescued, while rising floodwaters have swept through communities, lifting homes and vehicles and forcing evacuation orders affecting about 5,500 residents north of the capital.
Authorities have also raised alarm over a dam on Oahu that is at risk of failure, urging residents to remain vigilant and follow safety directives.
Emergency officials across the islands have issued multiple flash flood warnings, advising residents to move to higher ground and avoid flooded areas as roads remain closed in several locations.
Flood alerts extend beyond Oahu to include Maui, Molokai and Hawaii Island.
The governor said the storm is expected to have “serious consequence for us as a state,” citing widespread damage to airports, schools, hospitals, roads and homes.
“This is the largest flood that we’ve had in Hawaii in 20 years,” Green said during a news conference, urging residents to seek shelter and adhere strictly to evacuation orders.
Meteorologists say the islands are currently experiencing a “Kona Low,” a slow-moving low-pressure system that draws in warm, moisture-laden air, leading to intense rainfall and flash flooding.
Some regions have recorded more than 10 inches of rainfall alongside winds reaching up to 100mph, compounding the impact of the storm.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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