Hawaii Floods: Over 230 Rescued Amid Severe Storms

Hawaii Battles Severe Flash Flooding After Intense Storms

Hawaii is grappling with the aftermath of severe flash flooding, which has prompted widespread evacuations and led to the rescue of over 230 people. Heavy rains, fueled by a weather system known as a Kona low, have inundated parts of the islands, causing significant disruptions, including road closures and damage to businesses. Emergency officials are working around the clock to assess the full impact of the storms, while organizations like the American Red Cross are providing essential support to those displaced.

Island Leaders Describe Devastating Impact

Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alamita described the recent rainfall as the worst flooding he has witnessed, particularly in the Kohala, Kona, and Kahoo districts. “Last night was super heavy rains,” Mayor Alamita stated, highlighting the emergency response to rescue 18 individuals from both vehicles and homes. He noted that businesses in Kyua Kona suffered heavy roof damage. Officials expect it will take until midweek to gain a complete understanding of all the storm’s effects. “Crews are out there as we speak, uh, both county and state, and they’re doing their assessments right now,” Mayor Alamita said. He directed county offices to operate as usual on the following day, emphasizing the need for continued work despite the challenges.

Travelers Advised to Exercise Caution

The Department of Transportation has acknowledged the efforts of crews working to clear roadways. However, drivers are urged to remain vigilant. “We should be going um going out doing doing what you need to do. Um but drive with caution,” advised a spokesperson. Lingering effects from the storm, such as softened slopes and debris on roads, are anticipated. “There’s going to be some some potential um holdovers from the storm. There may be areas where the slopes might be um softened a bit and we might see some debris on the roadway,” they added. The full extent of the storm’s impact is still unknown, with officials emphasizing the unusual amount of rainfall in a short period.

Red Cross Provides Critical Aid and Shelter

Mimi Teller, representing the American Red Cross, confirmed that the situation remains dynamic, with ongoing evacuations and shelter operations. “It’s it’s still a very fluid situation. Folks are evacuating. There’s a lot of evacuation orders,” Teller explained. Currently, 11 shelters are open, providing refuge for approximately 140 people. These shelters offer immediate necessities like a safe place to stay, meals, and blankets. Teller stressed the importance of safety, noting that the islands have experienced continuous flooding and storms over the past two weeks, leading to saturated ground and heightened flood risks.

Vulnerable Communities Hit Hardest

The flooding has disproportionately affected vulnerable communities. Teller shared an account of a compound on Oahu where ten families were displaced by two feet of water. Two of these families, comprising 14 individuals, were already recovering from previous storms and had been rebuilding their lives. This latest event has caused significant setbacks for them. “This has just really set them back even further. But our teams are there to help them. Help them right now in the immediate now and then as they move forward in their recovery,” Teller stated.

Looking Ahead: Continued Response and Support

The immediate future involves ongoing response efforts and monitoring for any additional storms. The Red Cross assures those affected that safe shelter is available until conditions improve. Residents are strongly advised to heed official warnings and evacuate if necessary. For those on the mainland wishing to help, the Red Cross suggests donations or volunteering. Information on how to contribute can be found at redcross.org or by calling 1-800-REDCROSS.

“Last night was super heavy rains. I mean the worst flooding I’ve seen especially in the Kohala Kona and Kahoo districts. There are 18 rescues rescues from the cars or or from the houses and and that was a a big concern.”

– Mayor Kimo Alamita, Hawaii County

“It’s it’s still a very fluid situation. Folks are evacuating. There’s a lot of evacuation orders. So, we’re just setting up shelters. We have 11 that are available right now. We have about 140 people in the shelters and we’re there with immediate needs.”

– Mimi Teller, American Red Cross

Source: Hawaii continues search and rescue efforts after severe flash flooding (YouTube)