North Shore Flooding: Hawaii Communities Unite for Recovery

Residents demonstrate resilience and take charge of recovery efforts after devastating floods in Waialua and Haleiwa.

Mar. 24, 2026 at 8:21am

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The recent floods that impacted Waialua and Haleiwa on Oahu's North Shore have underscored the critical role of community-led recovery efforts. While streets remain underwater and extensive damage persists, residents are demonstrating remarkable resilience, stepping up to support one another in the face of adversity.

Why it matters

This situation reflects a broader trend observed in disaster recovery worldwide, where communities are recognizing the need to build internal capacity, foster networks of mutual support, and take proactive steps to prepare for future events, rather than relying solely on external aid which can be slow and insufficient.

The details

Following the lifting of evacuation orders, the focus has shifted from immediate safety to long-term recovery. Many residents have expressed frustration with the pace of assistance from city and state agencies, prompting a surge in self-organized initiatives. Volunteers and neighbors are actively clearing mud and debris, community members have established distribution sites offering essential supplies, and churches have opened their doors as shelters. The Hawaii H.O.M.E. Project has been instrumental in providing medical services to residents, and local businesses are also playing a vital role in the recovery efforts.

  • The recent floods impacted Waialua and Haleiwa on Oahu's North Shore.
  • Evacuation orders were lifted, shifting the focus to long-term recovery.

The players

Hawaii H.O.M.E. Project

A local organization that has been instrumental in providing medical services to residents affected by the floods, offering wound care, medication refills, and access to prescriptions.

Lamont Brown

The chef and owner of The Fixx Haleiwa, who described the scene as 'devastating,' but also noted the inspiring spirit of neighbors helping neighbors.

Hinano Nahinu

A Waialua resident and Inspire Church volunteer, who expressed overwhelming gratitude for the support received, stating, 'My heart overflows with just love and appreciation…We're blessed.'

Governor Josh Green

The Governor of Hawaii, who has stated that reassessing dam safety protocols, including increased visual monitoring and accelerated structural improvements, is a priority.

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What they’re saying

“My heart overflows with just love and appreciation…We're blessed.”

— Hinano Nahinu, Waialua resident and Inspire Church volunteer

“We're blessed.”

— Hinano Nahinu, Waialua resident and Inspire Church volunteer

“The scene was 'devastating,' but also noted the inspiring spirit of neighbors helping neighbors, even those who didn't previously know each other.”

— Lamont Brown, Chef and owner of The Fixx Haleiwa

What’s next

Governor Josh Green has stated that reassessing dam safety protocols, including increased visual monitoring and accelerated structural improvements, is a priority.

The takeaway

The North Shore's experience offers valuable lessons for other communities facing similar challenges. Investing in local organizations, fostering social connections, and empowering residents to take ownership of their preparedness and recovery are crucial steps towards building long-term resilience.