Hawaii Governor David Ige signed an Emergency Proclamation for the State of Hawaii today as heavy rains are causing flooding, landslides and fear of dam failure, prompting evacuations in at least two counties.
“I’ve just signed an emergency proclamation for the State of Hawai‘i after heavy rains and flooding caused extensive damage to both public and private property across the islands,” said Gov. Ige. “The emergency proclamation makes state general funds available that can be used quickly and efficiently to help those impacted by the severe weather, which is expected to continue until Friday.”
In Maui County, heavy rains completely washed out the Peahi Bridge on Peahi Road, and displaced the Kaupakalua Bridge on Kaupakalua Road, making the roads impassable. There is also damage to other roads and bridges on the Valley Isle.
Across the state, saturated ground conditions and increased water levels in reservoirs have increased the risk of erosion, seepage, piping and fear of dam failure.
The emergency declaration covers the counties of Hawai‘i, Maui, Kalawao, O‘ahu and Kaua‘i. It gives the governor the authority to spend state funds as appropriated to protect the health, safety and welfare of residents and visitors in the State of Hawai‘i. The declaration supports the state’s efforts to provide quick and efficient relief of suffering, damage, and losses caused by flooding and other effects of the heavy rains.
The disaster emergency relief period continues through May 8, 2021.
You can view the emergency proclamation here: