Hawaii experienced its worst flooding in over 20 years as heavy rains hit already saturated soil, prompting evacuation orders for 5,500 people on Oahu’s North Shore.
Muddy waters damaged homes, cars, and infrastructure, with the cost of the storm estimated to exceed $1 billion, including airports, schools, and a Maui hospital.
No deaths were reported, though 10 people were hospitalized with hypothermia, and 72 children and adults were airlifted from a spring break camp.
Authorities closely monitored the aging Wahiawa Dam, which came within six feet of its maximum capacity, raising fears of imminent failure, the AP has reported.
Officials warned more rain was expected, with experts linking the flooding to intensified rainfall patterns caused by climate change.
