Evacuations spread across Oahu as Kona low brings flooding, strains shelters
By Angela Cifone
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HONOLULU (KITV) — A powerful Kona low storm system is forcing evacuations across the North Shore and Central Oʻahu, as relentless rain pushes waterways to dangerous levels and strains emergency shelters islandwide.
Officials are closely monitoring the Wahiawā Dam near Lake Wilson, which is nearing capacity after days of steady rainfall on already saturated ground. The threat of flooding has prompted evacuations in areas including Haleʻiwa and Waialua.
In Central Oʻahu, evacuees have been arriving at shelters throughout the day as conditions continue to shift.
At Wahiawā District Park, which opened early in the morning, residents described how quickly the flooding escalated. One couple said they watched their car float away as water rushed into their home, forcing them to evacuate immediately.
Another resident reported being awakened in the middle of the night by emergency crews.
“It was a bang on the wall at three o’clock in the morning — police telling us to get out,” said Clem Camou, an Otake Camp resident. “There was water everywhere, rushing, moving fast. I’ve got a surf shop in my backyard… I’m just hoping it’s still there when I get back.”
Shelter staff have been assisting families since early morning, with evacuees arriving by bus from areas like Waialua. Some were also taken to Leilehua High School as officials worked to distribute people across available locations.
Residents said this storm feels different from previous Kona lows. During past events, shelters were largely occupied by the homeless population. This time, many evacuees are families displaced by rising floodwaters.
As conditions worsened on the North Shore, evacuations intensified, with some residents airlifted out of flooded areas where access roads became impassable.
Several of those evacuees were transported to shelters on the west side, including Nānākuli High School, where crews are preparing for a surge in arrivals.
“A busload of about 40 people — we will be assisting them as they enter our shelter,” said Principal Christine Udarbé. “I know there is another busload coming.”
The school began operating as a temporary refuge earlier in the day and is transitioning into a full emergency shelter with support from the American Red Cross. Staff and volunteers have been setting up sleeping areas, organizing supplies, and preparing for additional evacuees.
Other shelters are also opening to meet growing demand.
In Central Oʻahu, Inspire Church Mililani has stepped in to provide relief for displaced residents, particularly as conditions forced the evacuation of shelters like Waialua High School due to flooding and safety concerns.
“I saw Lake Wilson this high — I’ve never seen it like this,” said Pastor Clint Chinen. “We’re just getting ready to help people who aren’t able to stay safely where they are. Inspire Church, we’re here for the community.”
Church leaders said a team of volunteers is ready to assist around the clock, but supplies are already running low. They are requesting donations of bottled water, nonperishable food, towels and other essentials, as more evacuees are expected.
City officials said evacuation efforts remain ongoing and plans continue to evolve as conditions change. Authorities are also urging the public to avoid flying drones, warning that they are interfering with airlift operations, which remain a top priority.
Officials continue to urge residents in evacuation zones to follow all instructions, emphasizing that conditions can shift rapidly as the storm system moves through the islands.
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