Hawaii flooding forces evacuation of more than 4,000 over failing Wahiawa dam
Mar 20th 2026 ยท World
Heavy rains on Oahu prompted evacuation orders and emergency alerts as the aging Wahiawa dam shows signs of imminent failure, the National Guard was activated, and flood watches remain in effect across the state.
- Officials ordered more than 4,000 people to evacuate areas downstream of the 120-year-old Wahiawa dam because it is at imminent risk of failing.
- Emergency sirens and a "LEAVE NOW" order were issued for Waialua and Haleiwa after heavy rains inundated streets and damaged homes.
- The National Weather Service issued a flood watch for all islands through Sunday and a flash flood warning for northern Oahu with life-threatening flooding expected.
- Governor Josh Green activated the Hawaii National Guard, reported rooftop rescues, and several pet-friendly shelters were opened for evacuees.
- State officials say Hawaii regulates 132 dams and cited recent storms and past dam breaches as context for the heightened risk.
Articles
- Evacuations Ordered on Oahu as Heavy Rain Brings Flash Flooding www.nytimes.com
- Hawaii flooding prompts evacuation orders for more than 4,000 people www.cbsnews.com
- Thousands ordered to evacuate as Hawaii hit by severe flash floods www.theguardian.com
- Over 4,000 told to evacuate flooding in Hawaii as officials warn 120-year-old dam could fail www.npr.org
- US: Hawaii hit by historic flooding, more rain coming www.dw.com
- Hawaii suffers worst flooding in 20 years, with more rain expected www.scmp.com
- Hawaii suffers its worst flooding in 20 years and forecasters warn more rain is coming apnews.com
- Thousands evacuated as Hawaii faces worst flooding in 20 years www.bbc.com
- Flash flooding swamps Hawaii, prompting evacuation orders for 5,500 people www.aljazeera.com