Storm Recovery Underway Across the Islands
Keauhou, HI · March 28, 2026
The powerful back-to-back kona lows that battered Hawaiʻi last week have passed, leaving behind significant damage and a weeks-long recovery effort. Rainfall totals exceeded 40 inches in some areas, with record-breaking downpours triggering widespread flooding, landslides, and infrastructure damage across multiple islands.
🏙️ Local Pulse
State Declares Emergency, Damage Assessments Ongoing Governor Josh Green declared a State of Emergency as damage surveys continue statewide. Preliminary estimates show $40 million in road repairs needed, $100 million in airport damage, and hundreds of millions in residential losses. Federal disaster declaration is being pursued to unlock additional assistance.
Konawaena High School Shifts to Distance Learning The school will transition to distance learning beginning Monday, March 30, as staff use the week to prepare facilities and complete storm remediation efforts on campus.
Help Resources Available for Residents Those needing assistance connecting with recovery resources can call United Way's help line at 211 to access available support and services.
🌤️ Today's Outlook
- High 80°F · Low 70°F
- Conditions continue to improve as the storm systems move away. Periods of moderate showers may linger over windward areas, but the worst has passed. Good day to assess any property damage and begin cleanup efforts.
📸 Spotlight & Story
Kona Low: What It Means for Hawaiʻi A kona low is a slow-moving, low-pressure weather system that typically forms during winter months northwest of the Islands and can stall nearby for days. Last week's back-to-back systems were among the most destructive in decades—the first dumped record rainfall across all islands between March 11–15, with some weather stations breaking daily records. The second system brought additional heavy rain and thunderstorms, compounding flooding and landslide risks. These subtropical cyclones pull moisture from the tropics, fueling intense, stationary thunderstorms that can drench a single area for extended periods.
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