HONOLULU (AP) — Muddy floodwaters from severe rains inundated streets, pushed homes off their foundations, swallowed vehicles, and prompted evacuation orders for thousands of residents in towns north of Honolulu on Friday as officials warned of the possible failure of a 120-year-old dam.
Emergency sirens blared along Oahu’s North Shore, where rising waters damaged homes in a community world-renowned for its surfing. Honolulu officials told residents Friday morning to leave the area downstream of Wahiawa dam — long known to be vulnerable — saying it was “at risk of imminent failure.”
More than 230 people were rescued as heavy rains pummeled the Hawaiian island of Oahu and triggered the worst flooding the island has seen in 20 years, inflicting what the governor projected could top $1 billion in damage.
Water levels at the dam, previously at 79 feet, had climbed to 84 feet in less than 24 hours, just six feet shy of its capacity to manage additional rainfall, raising serious alarms.
No deaths reported, but some treated for hypothermia
Fortunately, no deaths were reported and no one was unaccounted for, said Governor Josh Green at a press conference. He confirmed that about 10 people were treated for hypothermia.
Rescue teams searched by both air and water for stranded individuals, despite complications caused by recreational drones being deployed by onlookers for aerial footage of the flooding.
Dozens, if not hundreds, of homes faced damage, but comprehensive assessments have not yet been completed, according to Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi. Approximately 5,500 residents were under evacuation orders.
“There’s no question that the damage has been catastrophic thus far,” he noted.
Blangiardi expressed confidence in the stability of the dams throughout the island, although the unpredictability of the weather raises ongoing concerns.
The National Guard and Honolulu Fire Department have facilitated the airlifts of 72 individuals from a spring break youth camp situated on higher ground, located on Oahu’s west coast, where access became blocked due to flooding.
On Maui, officials issued an evacuation advisory for some Lahaina neighborhoods as they monitored nearby retention basins nearing capacity. Parts of these neighborhoods had experienced devastating damage from a wildfire that occurred in 2023.
Keeping a close eye on the dam
Authorities have closely monitored the dam levels since a preceding storm flooded various parts of the state. It remains uncertain how much additional rain could fall over the coming days.
Governor Josh Green referred to upcoming forecasts as a potential “touch-and-go day,” meticulously tracking the weather amidst growing concerns of further inclement conditions.
As the National Weather Service issued flood watches and flash flood warnings, multiple shelters became overwhelmed with evacuees—efforts hampered by rapidly changing conditions.
The dam's history and current concerns
The earthen dam, constructed in 1906, was initially built to enhance sugar production for the former Waialua Agricultural Company, later merged with Dole Food Company. Throughout its history, the dam has faced scrutiny regarding its safety and structural integrity.
Following a dam inspection, the state has issued multiple notices of deficiencies to Dole, highlighting critical safety issues which still demand attention.
The state had planned to acquire the dam, appropriating funds for necessary repairs; however, delays in the formal transfer process keep safety concerns at the forefront.
