Story perspectives

Storm knocks out power for 200,000 customers in Hawaii

8/17/2026

Summary

Alameda Reports Outage

Mayor Kimo Alameda said the storm cut power to over 200,000 customers and destroyed six bridges, isolating Pahala.
Governor Josh Green said three hospitals ran on generators after more than 30 inches of rain fell on the Big Island.
Wind gusts hit 100 mph in West Oahu, uprooting trees, damaging lines and sending about 130 people to eight shelters.

Summary

Kaua'i Outage

The Kaua‘i Department of Water reported a service outage for Ha‘ena-Wainiha, with crews set to restore service once the zone is accessible.
The Hawaii Department of Health issued a brown-water advisory urging avoidance of murky water for 48-72 hours after rain stops.
All Kaua‘i public schools were closed on Monday, Aug. 17, 2026.
State parks, forest reserves, trails and the Ha’ena Shuttle remain closed.
Refunds will be issued for missed camping nights.

History

Historical Context

In 1992, Hurricane Iniki slammed Kauai with 150 mph winds, toppling 1,400 homes, flooding valleys, and leaving over 200,000 customers without electricity. Governor John Waihee declared an emergency, and FEMA allocated $3 billion in aid, while Hawaiian Electric restored power to 90 % of customers within two weeks. Today, Mayor Kimo Alameda reports 200,000 outages and bridges destroyed, while Governor Josh Green notes hospitals on generators after 30 inches of rain, echoing Iniki’s disruption. The Iniki experience prompted Hawaii to overhaul building codes, expand emergency shelters, and invest $500 million in resilient infrastructure, guiding current recovery strategies.

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Alameda Reports Outage

Mayor Kimo Alameda said the storm cut power to over 200,000 customers and destroyed six bridges, isolating Pahala.
Governor Josh Green said three hospitals ran on generators after more than 30 inches of rain fell on the Big Island.
Wind gusts hit 100 mph in West Oahu, uprooting trees, damaging lines and sending about 130 people to eight shelters.

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