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Hawaii's Worst Flooding in 20 Years Threatens Dam, Prompts Evacuations as More Rain Looms

Hawaii is experiencing its worst flooding in over 20 years, resulting in evacuations and a threatened dam failure. The North Shore of Oahu saw extensive inundation, while Maui's Lahaina area, still recovering from wildfires, issued evacuation warnings. Governor Josh Green estimates damages up to $1 billion, affecting airports, schools, and hospitals. More rain is forecasted, increasing flood risks, and federal support has been assured.

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Hawaii's Worst Flooding in 20 Years Threatens Dam, Prompts Evacuations as More Rain Looms

Hawaii is enduring its most severe flooding in over two decades, triggering evacuations, a critical dam threat, and widespread damage, with additional rainfall anticipated.

Severe Flooding Strikes Hawaii

Heavy rains have inundated Hawaii following a previous winter storm that left the ground saturated. This event marks the worst flooding in more than 20 years, with forecasts indicating continued precipitation through the weekend.

Oahu's North Shore Inundated

  • Muddy floodwaters swamped large portions of Oahu's North Shore, a globally recognized surfing destination.
  • Raging currents displaced homes and vehicles, leading to evacuation orders for 5,500 residents north of Honolulu (subsequently lifted).
  • Officials warned that a 120-year-old dam faces potential failure due to excessive water pressure.
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Maui's Lahaina Faces Renewed Risks

  • Evacuation advisories in Maui's Lahaina were escalated to warnings for certain areas.
  • The community, still recovering from the 2023 wildfire, has retention basins approaching full capacity, exacerbating flood dangers.

Weather Service Cautions

Meteorologist Tina Stall of the National Weather Service in Honolulu emphasized: "Don't let your guard down just yet, there's still potential for more flooding impacts."

Resident Experiences

Local farmer Racquel Achiu recounted her ordeal:

  • She discovered her goats in knee-high floodwaters on Thursday night.
  • Within an hour, her family's seven dogs were trapped in a drowning risk at an elevated kennel.
  • Her nephew and son-in-law waded through chest-high water to rescue the dogs.

Official Damage Assessment and Support

Governor Josh Green projected storm damages could surpass $1 billion, impacting:

  • Airports
  • Schools
  • Roads
  • Homes
  • A hospital in Kula, Maui He noted that federal assistance has been committed after discussions with the White House.
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