According to reports, the American Red Cross has set up evacuation shelters on the north shore of Kauai after the Hawaiian Island was lashed by heavy rains. Homes in Hanalei, Wainiha, Haena, and Anahola have been damaged or washed away and water service and power are out for many in the area. The downpour caused flooding and mudslides, and two homes were torn off their foundations on the northern side of the island. Evan Valiere shared the image above of Hanalei Pier on social media that shows the extent of some of the damage.
As of Sunday morning, rescue crews are in helicopters searching for any residents who may be trapped. Both Kauai and Honolulu firefighters, along with the Coast Guard, have been dispatched for rescue operations. By mid-morning, Hawaii News Now reported that there had been 15-20 rescues. No injuries have been reported so far.
The island remains under a flash flood warning as the rain continues, and shelters have been up at Kapaa Middle School, the Church of the Pacific in Princeville, and Princeville’s Hanalei Elementary School. Many roads are closed due to damage, including parts of Kuhio Highway. A massive sinkhole opened up on Hanalei Plantation Road in Princeville.
Roads are also flooded. One resident shared this dramatic video below:
The mayor, Bernard Carvalho, has signed an emergency proclamation. “We are working with the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, the Governor’s Office, the Coast Guard, and other partners to respond to the immediate safety needs for the people in the hardest-hit area between Hanalei and Haena,” said Carvalho. “This morning, we will be working to assess the extent of the damage that occurred throughout the night. For now, we are urging people to stay off the roadway. Shelter in place in a safe location or evacuate to higher ground if you are in a flood-prone area.”
