Severe Flooding Hits Oahu, Hawaii as Aging Dam Threatens to Fail

Sat Mar 21 2026 18:00:44 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Heavy rains on Oahu, Hawaii, have led to catastrophic flooding, prompting evacuation orders impacting thousands. The historic Wahiawa Dam is at risk of imminent failure, with officials urging residents to evacuate as more rain is forecasted.

Heavy rains have caused significant flooding on Oahu, Hawaii, leading to the evacuation of approximately 5,500 residents, particularly near the Wahiawa Dam, which is at risk of failure. Authorities have rescued over 230 individuals, with reports indicating potential damages exceeding $1 billion. As the state braces for more rain, officials closely monitor the dam's stability, recalling its problematic history and the urgency for timely safety repairs.

HONOLULU (AP) — Following severe rainfall, floodwaters have devastated streets in Oahu, resulting in multiple homes being displaced and the inundation of vehicles. Authorities have issued evacuation orders for over 5,500 residents in the vicinity of the historically vulnerable Wahiawa dam, which is currently at risk of failure.

Emergency alerts echoed across the North Shore as officials urged residents to vacate areas downstream from the dam. With heavy rain marking what officials claim to be the worst flooding seen in 20 years, more than 230 individuals have been rescued so far. Hawaii's governor estimated the damage could surpass $1 billion.

Water levels at the dam increased rapidly, escalating concerns as they approached critical limits, reaching 84 feet, merely six feet below its safety threshold.

No Casualties Reported, But Injuries Persist

Fortunately, no deaths have been reported as of yet, but around ten individuals were treated for mild hypothermia, according to Gov. Josh Green. Recovery efforts faced complications due to unauthorized drone flights over flooded areas, hindering aerial searches.

The extent of the damage is still being assessed. Mayor Rick Blangiardi mentioned that officials were confident in the integrity of the islands’ other dams, but heavy rainfall complicates predictions for future weather conditions.

Evacuations and Shelters

In reaction to the flooding, the National Guard and local officials successfully airlifted 72 children and adults attending a youth camp on Oahu’s west coast. On Maui, authorities have advised evacuations in certain neighborhoods as water retention basins fill up, emphasizing the need for preparedness as conditions evolve.

The state has closely monitored the dam since it suffered significant issues during prior storms that caused severe damage across Hawaii.

The Aging Wahiawa Dam

Constructed in 1906 primarily to support sugar production, the Wahiawa dam has a long, problematic history. The state has previously issued citations to its owner for safety concerns, prompting action plans for necessary repairs. Although funding has been allocated for dam safety upgrades, the transfer of the dam ownership to the state has yet to complete, putting many residents at risk with impending heavy rain this weekend.