Kona Low strikes the Hawaiian islands of Kauai and O’ahu in March 2026. The subtropical weather systems near Hawaii have been fueling slow-moving thunderstorms with torrential and destructive rains.

Kona Low is a subtropical cyclone that significantly disrupts the typical trade wind pattern, typically resulting in prolonged heavy rain, flash flooding, and damaging winds. The storm produced damaging wind gusts in the 60-75 mile per hour range. 

Hundreds of homes were destroyed in O’ahu, first responders had conducted multiple water rescues; and as many as 115,000 residents went without power during and after the severe flooding. This storm has displaced families, flooded farms, and also reminded us how quickly life can change. States are also urging residents to avoid any type of traveling as rain continues to drop quickly.

On March 20, 2026 the Wahiawā Dam on O’ahu was closely monitored due to severe Kona Low storms that pushed water levels, and also considered “at risk of imminent failure” due to the intense waterfall.

As of March 23, 2026 the storm had begun to pull away, still leaving homes damaged with no power, schools continuing to stay shut down due to any damages and repairs that had to be made. Community members, government officials, and private entities all came together as a whole to clean up the mess the storm had caused.

Although this storm was difficult and sad, this was especially sad for those living in Hawaii. The island of O’ahu is very small and cluttered, which means once one person feels it, everybody feels it; this could be really personal for those whose families and friends are impacted by this terrible flooding.

Stay informed about extreme flooding like the Kona Low, because understanding today helps us prepare for tomorrow.