Historic Hawaii Floods Leave 2,000 Without Power

Raging floodwaters cause $1 billion in damage across the islands.

Mar. 23, 2026 at 2:05am

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More than 2,000 people remained without power Sunday afternoon after Hawaii suffered its worst flooding in more than 20 years. Heavy rains caused widespread damage, lifting homes and cars, prompting evacuations, and resulting in an expected $1 billion in total costs. No deaths have been reported, but crews continue to assess the damage and make repairs.

Why it matters

The intensity and frequency of heavy rains in Hawaii have increased due to human-caused global warming, underscoring the growing threat of extreme weather events to the islands. The flooding has disrupted power, transportation, and other critical infrastructure, highlighting the need for improved disaster preparedness and resilience.

The details

The rain accumulated on soil already saturated by downpours from a winter storm a week ago, causing raging floodwaters that lifted homes and cars. The storm prompted evacuation orders for 5,500 people north of Honolulu, and more than 200 people were rescued from the rising waters. Hawaiian Electric Co. has restored power to about 1,200 people, and expects to return power to 2,000 more later Sunday. In Maui County, about 100 people were without power Sunday afternoon.

  • The heavy rains fell across the Hawaiian islands on March 22, 2026.
  • A winter storm a week prior had already saturated the soil, contributing to the flooding.
  • By Sunday afternoon, March 23, 2026, the worst of the storms appeared to be over.

The players

Hawaiian Electric Co.

The electric utility company serving Hawaii, which has been working to restore power to customers affected by the flooding.

Molly Pierce

Spokesperson for Oahu's Department of Emergency Management, who provided updates on the rescue efforts and damage assessments.

Matthew Foster

A Hawaii meteorologist who told the Associated Press that the worst of the storms appears to be over.

Josh Green

The Governor of Hawaii, who said the cost of the storm could top $1 billion.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.