How to Help People Impacted by the Floods in Hawaii
3 min readThe flooding across Hawaii is thought to be among the worst the state has experienced in over 20 years, according to NBC. While there have been no recorded deaths, The Associated Press reports that over 230 individuals had to be rescued from the extreme weather conditions, and more rain could potentially be on the way. The National Weather Service “said showers and thunderstorms were expected to wane but the Big Island remained under a flash flood watch,” according to the outlet.
The floods began onMarch 20 after the Wahiawa Dam on Oahu’s North Shore experienced failure due to weak infrastructure. The downpour caused waters to rise as high as 80 feet, only six feet less than what the dam is capable of containing. About 5,500 Hawaiians north of Honolulu were told to evacuate—though, according to the AP, the orders were later lifted—and 10 people were treated for hypothermia. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi described the flood damage as “catastrophic,” causing an estimated $1 billion in damages across the state. Thousands are still without power.
Hawaii is now in a period of active recovery, Governor Josh Green said on March 22. “While the immediate threat from the storm has passed, recovery efforts continue across the islands as state and county crews assess damage, clear debris, and restore impacted infrastructure,” he said in a statement shared on X.
“The strength of Hawaiʻi is our people. Throughout this storm, we saw neighbors helping neighbors, communities stepping up, and our emergency teams working tirelessly to keep everyone safe,” Green added. “I am deeply grateful to the people of Hawai’i for looking out for one another during this challenging time.”
If you want to help those affected by the floods, here are some organizations that are helping.
Aloha United Way
Funds donated to Aloha United Way will provide assistance and referrals to individuals affected by the floods. Aloha United Way also supports local organizations helping out with flood relief on the ground, as well as the costs associated with response and recovery efforts.
American Red Cross
Donations will allow the Red Cross to respond to those impacted by the storms. The organization has opened and staffed 11 shelters across O‘ahu, Maui, Moloka‘i, the Big Island, and Lāna‘i. 500 people found shelter through the openings; over 1,100 meals were served to those in need.
University of Hawaii Foundation
The University of Hawaii Foundation is providing students and faculty members affected by the flood with financial assistance, shelter, and food. Laptops, textbooks, and other school-related materials are also provided so those enrolled can stay in school.
GoFundMe
GoFundMe has launched a “Hawaii Flooding Relief” hub that includes all verified fundraisers that are contributing to the flood relief efforts.
Salvation Army
Salvation Army Hawaii and Pacific Island Division is providing food, health supplies, and spiritual items to those affected by the floods. Like the Red Cross, The Salvation Army units across Oahu, Maui, and Hawaii provided over 1,600 meals to those affected by the power outages and floods.
Hawaiian Council
Hawaiian Council launched the Kākoʻo Oʻahu donation campaign, which seeks to raise funds in order to help anyone affected by the floods. The council will match every donation up to $100,000 and will allocate the funds to relief and recovery efforts.