Hawaii Battered by Severe Storm: Widespread Flooding, Blizzards, and Landslides

Hawaii experienced a significant storm on Sunday, leading to widespread flash flooding, blizzard conditions, and landslides across the islands. Residents reported damage including collapsed roads and one home being washed away by rising waters.

Widespread Impact and Conditions

Flash flooding significantly affected Maui, Molokai, and the Big Island, with rain rates of 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) per hour overnight, according to the Hawaii emergency management agency.

Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen stated that some areas of Maui received over 20 inches (51 cm) of rain in a 24-hour period.

As of Sunday midday, more than 35,000 electric customers in Hawaii were without power. Mayor Bissen reported flooding, landslides, sinkholes, debris, and downed power lines throughout Maui County. National Guard and fire department personnel conducted multiple floodwater rescues.

Specific Damage and Resident Accounts

Tom and Carrie Bashaw of Maui's Iao Valley reported that a portion of their home collapsed due to rising waters. Jesse Wald, a Maui resident, documented the collapse of a coastal road and observed other roads blocked by mud and sediment.

Wald noted that he had not witnessed such heavy rainfall in his 20 years on the island.

Current Weather Outlook

The National Weather Service indicated that the most severe phase of the storm had passed, but additional rain was expected. A flood watch remained in effect for Maui County and Hawaii Island, alongside a wind advisory for these areas. Flash flooding warnings were scheduled to continue until Sunday night. The NWS warned that strong winds could create dangerous conditions for driving and walking, potentially causing injuries by forcefully opening or slamming doors.

Kona Storm Characteristics and Mountain Snowfall

The storm, identified as a kona storm due to westerly winds, also brought snowfall to the highest peaks, with reports of up to 20 inches on the Big Island’s summits. Cameras on Mauna Kea experienced malfunctions due to snow and ice.