Six Emergency Shelters Remain Open Across Oahu as New Flood Watch Hits Monday

Six emergency shelters across Oahu remain open as the National Weather Service issued a new flood watch effective through Monday evening, providing crucial refuge for residents still recovering from last week’s devastating Kona Low weather system.

The shelters — located in Wahiawa, Manoa, Waianae, Nanakuli, Kaneohe, and Kahuku — continue operating as the islands brace for another round of heavy rainfall that could dump 2 to 4 inches across windward and mauka areas, with isolated totals reaching 6 inches.

“We’re keeping these shelters operational because we know many families are still dealing with flood damage and may need a safe place to stay,” said James Barros, deputy director of Honolulu’s Emergency Management Department. “With another weather system approaching, we want to ensure no one is caught off guard.”

The flood watch, which began early Monday morning, covers all Hawaiian islands and extends through Monday evening. Areas of particular concern include the North Shore, where recent rains have already saturated soils and stressed drainage systems.

Shelter Locations and Services

The Wahiawa District Park shelter has been serving families from central Oahu communities hit hard by flooding along Kamehameha Highway and Wilikina Drive. The facility provides meals, cots, and basic supplies for displaced residents.

In Manoa, the community center continues housing residents whose homes were damaged by the Manoa Stream overflow that inundated several streets near the University of Hawaii campus. The shelter has been coordinating with local churches to provide additional volunteer support.

The Waianae and Nanakuli shelters serve the leeward coast, where flash flooding damaged numerous homes in low-lying areas. These facilities have been working closely with Hawaiian Electric crews to assist residents whose power remains out.

On the windward side, shelters in Kaneohe and Kahuku remain busy serving families from areas that experienced the most severe impacts during the Kona Low event. The Kahuku facility has been particularly important for North Shore residents dealing with ongoing issues from damaged coastal access roads.

Infrastructure Concerns Mount

City officials report that while major roadways have reopened, several smaller residential streets remain closed due to washouts and debris. Public Works crews continue clearing storm drains and assessing damage to bridges and culverts throughout the island.

The approaching weather system has prompted renewed concerns about areas where infrastructure was compromised during the previous event. Neighborhoods near streams and in flood-prone valleys face heightened risk as drainage systems work to handle additional runoff.

“We’re monitoring stream levels closely and have crews positioned to respond quickly if conditions deteriorate,” Barros explained. “Residents in flood-prone areas should have emergency plans ready and know the location of their nearest shelter.”

Hawaiian Electric reports that while power has been restored to most customers, approximately 800 homes and businesses across Oahu remain without electricity. The utility company has crews standing by to address any new outages caused by Monday’s expected rainfall.

Community Response Continues

Local organizations have rallied to support shelter operations and flood recovery efforts. The Hawaii Foodbank has been supplying meals to all six facilities, while volunteer groups help with childcare and other services for displaced families.

Several churches and community groups have established donation drives for clothing, toiletries, and household items for those who lost belongings in the flooding. The Red Cross continues coordinating relief efforts and case management for affected families.

Insurance adjusters have been working throughout affected neighborhoods, though many residents report delays in getting damage assessments due to the widespread nature of the flooding.

Preparing for More Rain

Weather forecasters warn that while Monday’s system may not be as severe as the recent Kona Low, saturated ground conditions mean even moderate rainfall could trigger additional flooding and landslides.

Emergency officials urge residents to avoid driving through standing water and to stay informed about rapidly changing conditions. The city’s emergency alert system will notify residents of any shelter openings or evacuations that become necessary.

For Oahu families still dealing with flood damage to their homes, the continued operation of emergency shelters provides essential stability during what has become an extended recovery period. As the community works toward normalcy, these facilities represent a critical safety net ensuring no resident faces the next weather challenge alone.