Hawaii Declares State of Emergency Due to Flooding

Hawaii’s governor has declared a state of emergency following widespread flooding. Severe weather has hounded every island for the last few days, prompting flash flood warnings for the entire state through tomorrow morning. The Maui Fire Department alone has received over a dozen calls for help from residents trapped in their homes. A major dam was also almost breached, which forced people living downstream to be evacuated. Initial assessments began yesterday and already officials have seen widespread damage or destruction to numerous other roads, bridges, homes and more. Some local officials have reported that this is the worst flooding they’ve seen in over 25 years. Unfortunately for them, the severe weather and flooding is expected to continue through Friday. The Governor signed a emergency proclamation yesterday in order to assist those impacted by the natural disaster event. It will free up funds to be allocated to agencies, offices, or state employees who can expedite immediate relief to the areas and people where it’s most needed.