Torrential rains have forced more than 5,500 residents to flee their homes on Hawaii’s Oahu island as the Wahiawa Dam threatens to fail.
Authorities wasted no time issuing a stark “leave now” order early on Friday for the communities of Waialua and Haleiwa downstream.
Governor Josh Green immediately activated the Hawaii National Guard and urged everyone to head for higher ground without delay.
Meanwhile, emergency crews raced through chest-high floodwaters to rescue more than 230 people so far.
Muddy torrents swept away vehicles, damaged homes and washed out roads across the North Shore, while sirens blared warnings and flash-flood alerts rang out.
However, the 120-year-old dam itself has held firm.
Its owner, Dole Food Company, confirmed the structure remains stable with no signs of damage and stays under constant watch.
Water levels have begun to ease, and officials have even scaled back parts of the evacuation zone.
Additionally, volunteers opened shelters for displaced families, though crews later moved one group when floodwaters crept too close.
Long-time resident Kathleen Pahinui spoke for many as she packed up to stay with friends on higher ground.
“Just pray for us,” she said. “We understand there’s more rain coming.”
Furthermore, forecasters warn that fresh showers could arrive over the weekend, so the flood watch stays in place.
This latest crisis highlights how extreme weather keeps testing Hawaii’s ageing infrastructure and the people who live with it every rainy season.
Officials continue to monitor the situation closely and ask residents in the affected areas to stay alert and move quickly if sirens sound again.
