In March of 2026, a destructive storm hit hundreds of homes throughout Hawaii. What started out as intense rainfall with totals of 5 to 10 inches throughout the state, from the 11th to the 15th of March, has brought about intense wind gusts up to 75 miles per hour.
Around 115,000 residents of O’ahu faced power outages in the storm’s aftermath, and hundreds of homes sustained damage of up to millions of dollars. The storm has brought about some of the worst flooding the state has experienced in decades– the last intense flood occurring in 2004 with significant damage as well.
Thousands had to be evacuated from their homes due to the statewide flood, and potential flash floods are predicted to occur throughout the week. According to Scripps News, homes have been reported to be swept off of their foundations, and cars have been reported to float out of their driveways by local authorities. NASA has taken satellite images of the neighborhoods and farmlands between Mokuleia and Waialua on O’ahu island, and suspended sediment has been shown to discolor the waters, leaving them red and muddy.
According to KCRA Channel 3, farms around the state have reported over $9.4 million worth of damage, according to a survey conducted by Agriculture Stewardship Hawaii. Oahu farmers have reported $2.7 million in damages done to crops, and Governor Josh Green has said that storm costs could total up to $1 billion to cover airports, homes, roads, schools, and hospitals.
As of March 23, 2026, no deaths have been reported according to authorities, but many were found to be trapped in their own homes. A couple in Waialua, Michael McEwan and Heather Nakahara, were trapped in their bedroom closet for eight hours with two small terriers and three parrots until McEwan was able to find rescuers and secure their escape.
All eyes are on Hawaii as they experience this devastating flooding throughout its several Islands.
