HAWAII — Two Kona low winter storm systems unleashed the worst flooding to hit Hawaii in over 20 years, damaging hundreds of homes, schools, farms and a hospital across the state. Governor Josh Green said damages from both storms could exceed $1 billion.
The storms, occurring roughly a week apart, delivered deluges over soil too soaked to absorb more rainwater. The flooding damaged farmers' crops, hundreds of homes, several schools and one hospital.
"These storms have impacted every county in our state and stretched our emergency response capabilities," Green said in a statement. "This request is about getting our communities the support they need to recover quickly and safely."
Multiple nonprofit organizations activated emergency relief efforts across the Hawaiian islands. The Hawaiian Council, a nonprofit dedicated to Native Hawaiian advancement, launched the Kako'o Oahu initiative to help residents with housing stability services and financial assistance. The organization is matching up to $200,000 in donations.
"So many families have been displaced, homes have been damaged, and communities are facing immediate needs," said Kuhio Lewis, Chief Executive Officer of the Hawaiian Council. "The path to recovery begins now -- it cannot wait."
Hawaii Community Foundation activated the Stronger Hawaii Fund to deploy resources across the state for response, recovery and future resilience. Aloha United Way on Oahu activated its Community Relief Fund to provide immediate assistance to individuals and families and support nonprofit organizations working on the front lines.
On Maui and Molokai, where some areas were temporarily cut off by flooding, Maui United Way is helping affected communities. Maui Rapid Response is using funds to deliver mutual aid to underserved communities on both islands, including people who are homeless. The town of Hana was temporarily cut off from aid due to washed-out roads.
Neighbors and aid groups are helping affected households secure temporary housing, replace food, receive medical care and clear debris from homes. Lahui Foundation is accepting donations for its mutual aid work distributing supplies and financial aid to Oahu's North Shore families and organizing volunteers to help residents clean out homes and neighborhoods. Musician Jack Johnson pointed those eager to help to the Lahui Foundation in an Instagram post.
Hawaii Island United Way is collecting donations for flood relief on the Big Island and asks supporters to note their donation as intended for flood relief. GoFundMe created a hub of verified fundraisers for people impacted by the floods. Help Maui Rise is keeping a spreadsheet of donation opportunities for people directly affected, vetted by community members, according to the organization.
Hawaii Farmers Union Foundation launched the Hawaii Flood Response Fund to help farmers across the state recover, rebuild and restore Hawaii's local food system, according to the group. Agriculture Stewardship Hawaii estimates that damages to farms statewide exceed $15 million so far.