Thousands evacuated as Hawaii faces worst flooding in 20 years

March 21, 2026

Hawaii is experiencing its most severe flooding in two decades after being struck by two major storms within a week, with some areas receiving 40-50 inches of rain over ten days. Authorities have ordered evacuations for approximately 5,500 residents, primarily north of Honolulu, and rescued more than 230 people as floodwaters lifted homes and vehicles. Governor Josh Green warned that saturated ground conditions make additional flooding likely with minimal new rainfall, while damage estimates could surpass $1 billion.

Who is affected

Residents of Hawaii, particularly on Oahu and parts of Maui County
Approximately 5,500 people under evacuation orders north of Honolulu
More than 230 people who have required rescue
Governor Josh Green and Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi (officials managing the crisis)
Emergency workers responding to the disaster
People displaced by the storm utilizing the hotel discount program

What action is being taken

Officials have ordered evacuations for affected areas
Emergency workers are conducting rescue operations (more than 230 people rescued so far)
The state has activated a program offering discounted hotel rates for displaced residents
Honolulu Department of Emergency Management is issuing flash flood warnings
Authorities are monitoring a dam in Oahu that is at risk of collapse
Roads are being closed across the islands

Why it matters

This is Hawaii's largest flood event in 20 years, with damage estimates potentially exceeding $1 billion. The severity is compounded by ground already saturated from earlier rainfall, making the area vulnerable to additional flooding with minimal new precipitation. Critical infrastructure including airports, schools, roads, hospitals, and homes has sustained enormous damage, creating serious consequences for the entire state. This represents another major natural disaster for Hawaii following the deadly 2023 Lahaina wildfires that killed over 100 people.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC