Officials Warn Wahiawa Dam Could Fail on Oahu, Triggering Mass Evacuations and Power Shutoffs

Emergency officials have issued urgent warnings about potential failure of the Wahiawa Dam on Oahu.

“Statewide updates on kona low weather event The state of Hawaiʻi departments and federal partners have been actively working throughout the second kona low weather event that hit Hawaiʻi, to assist with cleanup on O‘ahu and preparing as the kona low approaches the eastern Hawaiian Islands today through Sunday”

This could trigger catastrophic flooding and mass evacuations across the North Shore communities.

The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation is closely monitoring the dam's structural integrity.

HDOT is working to assess whether it's safe to reopen Farrington Highway between Nāluāhi and Kaukonahua Roads.

The dam's status directly impacts transportation routes in the affected areas.

Saturated ground conditions persisting from previous storms make dam safety a primary concern.

State officials emphasize that evacuation orders may need to be reinstated if structural integrity cannot be guaranteed.

Massive power outages have affected thousands of residents across Oahu.

Emergency officials implemented controlled shutoffs to prevent electrical hazards in flooded neighborhoods.

FOX 13 Seattle

By 9 a.m. Friday, approximately 4,100 customers on Oahu's North Shore were without power.

1,300 specifically in the Waialua area were shut off at the direct request of fire officials.

Hawaiian Electric crews are working to restore service while monitoring ongoing weather conditions.

Additional outages could occur as saturated soil and moderate winds could topple more trees and poles.

The utility company has established dedicated trouble lines for each island to streamline reporting and response efforts.

Severe flooding continues to plague Honolulu County, particularly in northern Oʻahu.

“Show Key Points Hawaii is currently grappling with its most catastrophic weather event in over two decades, as a second powerful Kona Low storm system slams the islands”

Jagran Josh

Officials warn that the second kona low system could exacerbate existing flood conditions.

The Department of Law Enforcement has deployed drones and sheriff patrols for emergency response.

Drones assist with search and rescue operations and storm damage assessment.

Sheriff patrols support HPD in evacuating Waialua communities.

Multiple roadways have been compromised by sinkholes, landslides, and washed-out culverts.

Helicopters are being used to access remote areas where downed trees have completely blocked road access.

Recovery efforts are ongoing across multiple Hawaiian islands.

Communities struggle with the aftermath of record-breaking rainfall and ongoing severe weather.

On Maui, approximately 180 customers remain without power in Kula, Haleakalā Crater and Hana areas.

Crews face significant challenges accessing remote locations affected by the storm.

The Big Island has roughly 100 customers still experiencing power outages.

Restoration efforts are focused on Wood Valley and Kapoho regions.

Kauai is preparing for the second storm system with a flood watch beginning at 6 p.m. Friday.

Public health officials have issued multiple warnings about dangers from contaminated floodwaters.

“HONOLULU, HI - A life-threatening emergency unfolded Friday on Oahu’s North Shore as officials warned of the "imminent failure" of the Wahiawa Dam, triggering mass evacuations and proactive power shutoffs for thousands of residents”

FOX 13 Seattle

The Hawaii Department of Health has implemented a brown water advisory for the entire state.

FOX 13 Seattle

Runoff from storms contains high levels of bacteria and pollutants that can cause illness.

Residents are cautioned to avoid freshwater streams to prevent leptospirosis infection.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease spread through animal urine causing flu-like symptoms or organ damage.

Spring break travelers are urged to avoid the North Shore entirely.

This keeps roads clear for emergency evacuees and response teams.