Kona Low Storm Wreaks Havoc on South Maui Shoreline

Flooding, debris, and damage leave residents and businesses reeling in Kihei

Mar. 15, 2026 at 9:24pm

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A powerful Kona low storm system has caused widespread flooding and destruction along the South Maui shoreline, particularly in the Kihei area. Eyewitness Daniel Baralt described "total chaos" as cars were swept away, containers were tossed around, and floodwaters turned streets into raging rivers. Businesses and homes have been inundated, and the cleanup effort is just beginning as more rain is expected.

Why it matters

The Kona low storm system has highlighted the vulnerability of the South Maui coastline to extreme weather events, which are expected to become more frequent and intense due to climate change. This incident raises concerns about infrastructure, emergency preparedness, and the long-term resilience of coastal communities in Hawaii.

The details

The floodwaters, originating high on Haleakala, carried away cars, trucks, and even a 40-foot shipping container as they rushed downhill. Businesses and homes in the Kihei area were submerged, with mud and debris covering the streets. Rescue efforts were hampered by the dangerous conditions, and a previous incident in 2023 where a firefighter was swept away and killed serves as a tragic reminder of the risks.

  • The storm hit the South Maui shoreline early on Saturday, March 14, 2026.
  • The rain and flooding continued throughout the day on March 14, 2026.
  • More rain is forecast for Sunday, March 15, 2026.

The players

Daniel Baralt

A South Maui resident who has lived in the area for over 20 years and witnessed the destruction firsthand.

Tre Evans-Dumaran

A 24-year-old firefighter who was swept into a storm drain and killed during a flood in 2023, serving as a tragic reminder of the dangers.

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What they’re saying

“It's just total chaos,”

— Daniel Baralt, South Maui resident

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 incident highlights the urgent need for improved infrastructure, emergency planning, and climate resilience measures in coastal communities like Kihei to protect residents and businesses from the growing threat of extreme weather events.