Jason Momoa Forced to Flee as Historic Storm Batters Hawaii
Hollywood actor Jason Momoa was among thousands of residents compelled to evacuate as a powerful storm system unleashed dangerous, potentially fatal flooding across Hawaii. The Aquaman star took to Instagram to reveal he had fled the North Shore after losing power, seeking safety with his family.
'We're safe now but there's a lot of people who weren't, so sending all our love,' Momoa stated. He also shared footage of severe flooding near his father's home, describing the destruction as 'crazy' and urging his followers to stay secure.
Worst Flooding in Over Two Decades
Flooding across Oahu represents the most severe Hawaii has witnessed in more than 20 years. Rising waters have triggered mass evacuations near the Wahiawa dam, a 120-year-old structure officials warn is at 'imminent risk of failure.' In less than 24 hours, water levels surged from 79 feet to 84 feet, merely six feet below capacity.
Up to 12 inches of rain has deluged parts of Oahu, causing life-threatening flooding in communities including Haleiwa and Waialua. The National Weather Service has placed all of Hawaii under a flood watch through Sunday.
Mass Evacuations and Rescue Operations
Hawaii officials have ordered more than 5,000 people to evacuate. Governor Josh Green confirmed on Saturday afternoon that no deaths have been reported, though there were 'a few serious injuries.' More than 230 individuals have been rescued, with no one remaining unaccounted for. Approximately 10 people were hospitalised with hypothermia.
The Honolulu Department of Emergency Management reported 131 people were placed into six evacuation shelters overnight. Floodwaters, landslides, and downed trees have rendered roads impassable, complicating movement. All routes out of Waialua were at risk of failure, prompting urgent calls for remaining residents to depart before conditions deteriorate.
Momoa's Personal Connection and Community Appeal
Born in Honolulu, Momoa expressed that recent weeks have been 'heavy' for his home state. 'The storms, the flooding, the constant rain across Oahu have affected so many of our people especially those already facing hardship,' he posted on Instagram ahead of the weekend.
He added, 'Seeing families displaced, communities struggling, and our unhoused neighbors hit the hardest...' Momoa encouraged locals to check on neighbours, emphasising, 'That's what aloha is. It's showing up for each other when it matters most.' The dangerous weather forced him to cancel a planned music event.
Infrastructure and Economic Impact
More than $1 billion in damage is anticipated from the flooding, impacting airports, homes, roads, and schools. The Kona storm has also caused widespread power outages, with about 6,400 customers in Oahu without electricity as of Saturday, including 4,200 on the North Shore where Momoa evacuated.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) stated it is monitoring the 'severe flooding,' with teams embedded on the island ready to support if needed. This marks the second powerful Kona storm system to hit Hawaii this month, following one from March 10 to March 16.
Hawaii's Emergency Management Agency warned on Saturday morning that there remains 'potential for heavy rain' threatening the Wahiawa dam, underscoring the ongoing crisis. Governor Green declared, 'This is a major threat to our people and to our state,' highlighting the severity of the situation.
