Heavy rainfall from a Kona low weather system caused severe flash flooding across Hawaii, with the Big Island experiencing some of the most intense impacts. More than 230 people were rescued statewide amid the flooding, including 18 rescues from vehicles or homes on the Big Island.
Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda described the event as the worst flooding he has seen, particularly in the Kohala, Kona, and Kau districts. “Last night was super heavy rains. I mean the worst flooding I’ve seen especially in the Kohala Kona and Kau districts,” Alameda said. He noted that some businesses in Kailua-Kona sustained heavy roof damage and that it would take until midweek to fully assess all storm impacts.
County and state crews were conducting assessments, with Alameda directing a return to business as usual the following day while urging caution. The Department of Transportation reported that crews had cleared many roadways effectively but advised drivers to remain vigilant due to potential debris, softened slopes, and lingering hazards. “Drive with caution. Everybody should know that we don’t know all the full impacts of this storm yet. That was a lot of water in a short amount of time,” officials emphasized.
Alameda expressed relief that no injuries or deaths had been reported. “Fortunately, this morning things start to settle down and we’re going to spend the rest of the afternoon kind of getting an assessment of how much damage and then tomorrow get a better understanding of the damage around the island,” he said.
The American Red Cross has mobilized to support those displaced by the flooding. Mimi Teller, with the American Red Cross, described the situation as “very fluid,” with ongoing evacuations and orders in place. The organization had opened 11 shelters, housing about 140 people and providing immediate needs such as safe shelter, meals, blankets, and other essentials.
Teller highlighted the cumulative effects of repeated storms over recent weeks, noting soil saturation and repeated impacts across the state. She stressed safety as the priority, urging residents—especially the elderly and vulnerable—to prepare and evacuate quickly if ordered. One example involved a compound of 10 families on Oahu left under two feet of water, forcing 14 people from two already-vulnerable families into a Red Cross shelter after prior storm setbacks.
Looking ahead, Teller said the Red Cross would continue responding, monitoring for future storms, and assisting with both immediate aid and longer-term recovery. “We just want people to know that we have a safe place for them to come and until the waters subside and the skies clear, we are here,” she said. She reiterated the importance of heeding authorities: “Listen to what the authorities are telling you. If you need to get out, don’t wait.”
For those unaffected and wishing to help, Teller encouraged volunteering or donating through the Red Cross by calling or visiting the Red Cross website.
While conditions varied across the islands—clear skies and 77°F in Honolulu contrasted with the flooding elsewhere—the storm underscored Hawaii’s resilience amid ongoing challenges from back-to-back weather systems. Recovery efforts continue as officials tally full damages and support affected communities.
