Storm Brings Heavy Rain, No Severe Damages for Molokai

Photo courtesy of Mokulele Airlines.

By Catherine Cluett Pactol

Torrential rains last Sunday night into Monday caused flash flooding, cancellation of Molokai public schools on Monday, flight cancellations and delays, and roadways to be dangerous due to flooding. The “Kona low” weather conditions across the state brought overnight power outages to Honolulu, downed trees, home damages and dangerous flooding, and Gov. Ige declared a state of emergency for Hawaii. However Molokai only experienced brief power outages and moderate flooding but no severe damages. 

A cargo container blew into two Mokulele planes while they were tied down for the night in Honolulu, causing delays in addition to those caused by poor weather conditions. The aircraft took severe damages. Many flights to and from Molokai were delayed or cancelled. Mokulele’s Richard Schuman asked Molokai customers for their patience in a Facebook page, and requested that those with non-essential travel reschedule their booking. 

“This storm has affected the runway lights at the Kahului Airport and flying debris damaged two Mokulele planes that were parked on the ramp last night in Honolulu,” Schuman wrote. “We are here to serve you and we will do the best we can as the storm passes. We hope to return to normal operations by the end of the week.”

Report any damages that may have taken place during the storm. The Disaster Assistance and Recovery Centers will help residents to document and file reports of storm-related damages, according to Maui County. Residents with internet access may still report storm-related damage online at mauicounty.gov or call the Maui Emergency Management Agency at 808-270-7285 for more info.