Hawaii in state of emergency after flooding wreaks havoc

Honolulu, Hawaii - Hawaii has issued an emergency proclamation as the islands continue to be ravaged by devastating flooding.

Close to 4,000 residents have been asked to evacuate as Haleiwa, Hawaii, was flooded (stock image).
Close to 4,000 residents have been asked to evacuate as Haleiwa, Hawaii, was flooded (stock image).  © blasbike/ 123 RF

State governor David Ige signed the proclamation Tuesday to free up state funds, offering support to the thousands who have been hit by the wide-spread heavy rains and flooding.

Several Maui homes have been either damaged or destroyed , and two bridges are on the verge of collapse, according to CNN.

Some residents reported they were trapped with water up to their chest in a matter of minutes.

The entire state is currently under a flash flood watch until 6 AM local time on Wednesday. As the severe weather is expected to continue through Friday, Hawaiian locals are bracing for more damage to come.

"This has been unprecedented flooding, and we will be making damage assessments today," Mayor Michael Victorino said in a written statement Tuesday.

According to Victorino, it was the worst flooding residents have experienced in over 25 years.

On Tuesday evening, a flash flood warning was also issued for Haleiwa and the community was asked to evacuate, according to the Honolulu County government. "You are in danger. Leave now," they said.

Two people were reportedly swept away in the flooding Tuesday. Rescuers were able to save a 27-year-old man who was surprised by the raging waters in his truck, according to Hawaii News Now.

However, they haven't been able to find the second missing person. The search was suspended last night and will resume early Wednesday morning.

Cover photo: blasbike/ 123 RF

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