Hawaii Faces $1 Billion in Damages from Historic Floods

Mon Mar 23 2026 20:49:03 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Hawaii experiences severe flooding, leaving thousands without power and causing significant damage across the islands. The storm has prompted rescue operations and heightened concerns about dam safety amidst changing climate conditions.

More than 2,000 residents in Hawaii are without power following the worst flooding in over two decades. Heavy rains caused widespread damage, with estimates reaching $1 billion. Although major rescue operations have concluded and no fatalities have been reported, concerns remain over infrastructure, including a monitored dam. The storm's aftereffects include a boil water notice for several areas and an expected change to dryer weather later.

Hawaii suffered its most severe flooding event in over two decades, with heavy rains on already saturated soil resulting in over 2,000 people without power by Sunday afternoon. The storms have prompted officials to estimate damages could exceed $1 billion, particularly affecting homes, roads, and critical infrastructure.

In the wake of the flooding, evacuation orders were issued for approximately 5,500 residents north of Honolulu; although these orders have since been lifted, around 200 individuals were saved from rising waters during the storm. Fortunately, as of Sunday, no fatalities have been reported, according to the spokesperson for Oahu’s Department of Emergency Management, Molly Pierce.

Hawaiian Electric has made progress in restoring power, with around 1,200 customers in Waialua on the North Shore regaining service, while efforts continue to address outages across Maui County. By Sunday afternoon, about 100 people were still without power, although major outages on Hawaii Island have been resolved.

The most intense rainfall has passed, as meteorologist Matthew Foster informed the Associated Press that conditions shifted from widespread showers to scattered rain. In expected rainfall totals, Hawaii Island could receive less than 5 inches while other areas might see 1 to 2 inches. Northeast winds are anticipated to assist in moving moisture away from the islands by mid-week, while potential for isolated flooding remains.

Despite the storm's subsiding effects, a boil water notice continues for areas along the North Shore from Mokuleia to Turtle Bay, and residents are advised to report damages. Governor Josh Green has acknowledged the massive financial implications of the storm, compounding concerns over a century-old dam that showed signs of strain but is now being closely monitored as conditions improve.

Experts note that the increasing intensity and frequency of such heavy rainfall events are linked to human-induced climate change, adding to the urgency of addressing underlying environmental issues in Hawaii.