Hawaii begins challenging storm recovery as crews and residents rally

Crews and residents in Hawaii are beginning recovery after back-to-back kona storms caused widespread flooding across Oahu and Maui; officials said the immediate threat has passed while damage assessments and debris removal continue.

Crews and residents in Hawaii are beginning recovery work after back-to-back kona storms brought heavy rain and high winds that produced widespread flooding on Oahu and Maui. Officials described the flooding as the worst the state has seen in more than 20 years and said the immediate threat had passed. State and city teams are supporting affected communities while conducting damage assessments and clearing debris. Key facts: - Officials reported two kona storms struck within a short period, producing extensive flooding and damage to roads, homes and other infrastructure. - Authorities issued evacuation orders for about 5,500 people north of Honolulu and reported more than 200 rescues; many evacuation notices were later lifted. - Governor Josh Green said the immediate threat had passed and that crews were clearing debris and assessing damage; a boil-water notice was issued for the North Shore. - The governor noted potential damages could total about $1 billion, while the Honolulu Emergency Operations Center said it was too early to provide a reliable damage estimate. Summary: The storms produced extensive flooding with evacuations, rescues and damage to homes and infrastructure while crews and authorities continue assessments and cleanup. Undetermined at this time.