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Hawaii Storm Leaves 49,000 Without Power Amid Ongoing Repairs

3/16/2026

35 6 Full Breakdown

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Hawaiian Electric Restoration

Hawaii faces ongoing outages from the Kona storm, with about 49,000 customers without electricity.
Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO) says restoration has brought power back to more than 30,000 customers on Oahu and Hawaii Island.
Hazardous weather hampers assessments and repairs, affecting Wahiawa, Waipahu, and parts of Maui.
HECO prioritizes critical facilities and urges residents to prepare for extended outages, as a high wind warning remains.

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Hawaii Storm Devastation

On March 15, 2026, Hawaii faced a Kona storm causing flash flooding, blizzard conditions, and landslides.
Maui, Molokai, and the Big Island reported collapsed roads and homes, with rainfall up to 2 inches per hour.
Over 35,000 customers lost power, and emergency services conducted multiple rescues.
Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen reported over 20 inches of rain in 24 hours, with Mauna Kea receiving up to 20 inches of snowfall.

History

Historical Context

The Great Galveston hurricane struck on September 8, 1900, causing approximately 8,000 fatalities and devastating the city. This disaster, the deadliest in U.S. history, prompted significant changes in weather forecasting and emergency response. The storm's impact on Galveston, once a booming port city, underscored the vulnerabilities of coastal communities and the urgent need for improved infrastructure against severe weather events.

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Hawaiian Electric Restoration

Hawaii faces ongoing outages from the Kona storm, with about 49,000 customers without electricity.
Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO) says restoration has brought power back to more than 30,000 customers on Oahu and Hawaii Island.
Hazardous weather hampers assessments and repairs, affecting Wahiawa, Waipahu, and parts of Maui.
HECO prioritizes critical facilities and urges residents to prepare for extended outages, as a high wind warning remains.

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