Hawaii Activates Over 300 National Guard Troops as Third Storm Hits

Heavy rains and flooding prompt emergency response across the islands

Apr. 11, 2026 at 4:54pm

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a stormy Hawaiian coastline, with dramatic clouds, heavy rain, and crashing waves overwhelming the scale of any visible structures or landmarks.As Hawaii weathers another intense storm system, the state's resilience is tested by the growing frequency and severity of extreme weather events.Honolulu Today

The Hawaii National Guard has activated more than 300 troops to assist with emergency response efforts as another powerful 'Kona Low' storm system brings heavy rainfall and flooding to the islands. This is the third major storm to hit Hawaii in recent weeks, following record-breaking levels of rain last month that prompted extensive search and rescue operations. The Guard has filled thousands of sandbags, staged helicopters for evacuations, and deployed high-water vehicles to help with rescues in flooded areas.

Why it matters

Hawaii has been battered by an unusually high number of severe storms in a short period, straining the state's emergency response capabilities and infrastructure. The repeated flooding and need for Guard activation highlights the growing threat of extreme weather events driven by climate change, which are impacting vulnerable island communities.

The details

The latest 'Kona Low' storm system has brought heavy rains to multiple Hawaiian islands, closing roads and prompting flood watches. While search and rescue missions have not yet been required, the Hawaii National Guard has proactively mobilized personnel and equipment to prepare for potential emergencies. Troops have filled over 4,000 sandbags, staged helicopters for evacuations, and deployed high-water vehicles to assist with rescues in flooded areas. The Guard's Joint Task Force has been coordinating response efforts across the state.

  • On Friday, heavy rains hit the northern and western shores of Oahu, causing road closures.
  • Over 300 National Guard troops have now been activated, up from just over 200 still active from the previous month's storm response.
  • A flood watch was in effect for several Hawaiian islands overnight, with more rainfall expected over the weekend and into next week.

The players

Hawaii National Guard

The military force responsible for providing emergency response and disaster relief efforts in the state of Hawaii.

Josh Green

The Governor of Hawaii who activated the additional National Guard personnel in preparation for the latest storm.

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What they’re saying

“As part of those efforts, troops filled more than 4,000 sandbags ahead of this week's storms, a spokesperson said.”

— Hawaii National Guard Spokesperson

What’s next

The National Weather Service forecasts a drier Saturday, but more rainfall is expected over the weekend and into the start of next week, bringing several inches to parts of the state. Many areas of Oahu are still recovering from last month's storms, with crews working to repair infrastructure and clear debris.

The takeaway

The repeated activation of the Hawaii National Guard in response to severe storms highlights the growing threat of extreme weather events driven by climate change. As island communities face the impacts of these storms, emergency response capabilities will continue to be tested, underscoring the need for proactive planning and investment in resilient infrastructure.