Evacuations ordered in Oahu as floods put dam at risk of failure
NBC News • • general
Key Points:
- Officials warn that the Wahiawa dam on Oahu, one of the island’s largest dams, is at risk of imminent failure after heavy rainfall from two powerful storms, leading to evacuation orders for over 4,000 residents in Waialua and Haleiwa.
- The 660-foot-long earthen dam, built in 1906 and owned by Dole Food Company, was previously rated in poor condition and may fail due to overtopping, with state engineers noting concerns about its undersized spillway during major storm events.
- Heavy rains have caused widespread flooding across northern Oahu, submerging vehicles, washing away a home, and prompting rescues, while flood watches remain in effect through Sunday as additional rain pulses are expected
