Governor Requests Presidential Disaster Declaration.
Governor Josh Green formally submitted a request to the White House today for a Major Disaster Declaration following two consecutive Kona Low storm systems. The storms, which began on March 10, have caused what officials call the worst flooding in over 20 years. Early estimates suggest the total cost of the destruction could exceed $1 billion. The request aims to unlock FEMA Public Assistance for repairing roads, bridges, and utilities, as well as Individual Assistance for residents whose homes were inundated by mud and water. On Oʻahu’s North Shore, crews have already hauled away over 2,000 tons of debris. While the 120-year-old Wahiawa Dam is no longer at "imminent" risk of failure, officials remain on high alert as soils remain saturated.
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