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Hawaii suffers its worst flooding in 20 years and forecasters warn more rain is coming

Over 5,500 people evacuated as 8 to 16 inches of rain caused over 200 rescues and threatened a 120-year-old dam, with damage estimated above $1 billion, officials said.

  • On Friday, Hawaii suffered its worst flooding in more than 20 years as raging waters lifted cars and homes across Oahu, prompting evacuation orders for 5,500 people north of Honolulu.
  • Heavy rains fell on soil already saturated by "Kona lows" from a winter storm last week, with experts noting that intense rainfall events are increasing due to human-caused global warming.
  • Authorities closely monitored the 120-year-old Wahiawa dam after water levels spiked to 84 feet, just 6 feet shy of capacity. The National Guard and Honolulu Fire Department airlifted 72 people from a spring-break camp.
  • Gov. Josh Green estimated storm damages could top $1 billion, affecting roads, schools, and homes across the state. Green confirmed his chief of staff received assurances from the White House that Hawaii would receive federal support.
  • Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi warned that 6 to 8 inches of additional rain is forecast for Oahu over the coming days. Officials continue to evaluate the aging dam's acquisition, with a state board vote scheduled for next week.
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After a severe storm hit the US state of Hawaii this weekend, the island of Oahu and parts of Maui County are at risk of flash flooding due to fresh rain, Governor Josh Green said on Saturday. About 5,500 residents north of the capital Honolulu were forced to evacuate due to rising waters, the BBC reported.

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Spectrum Local News broke the news in United States on Friday, March 20, 2026.
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