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Evacuation Warning for Haleiwa and Waialua Due to Possible Wahiawa Dam Failure
3 months agoUS
An evacuation warning has been issued for the communities of Haleiwa and Waialua on Oahu's North Shore due to the risk of the Wahiawa Dam failing. Heavy rainfall has caused water levels to rise, prompting concerns about potential catastrophic flooding.
Key Insights
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The Honolulu Department of Emergency Management issued the evacuation warning out of an abundance of caution, after Otake Camp was already ordered to evacuate due to flooding.
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The Wahiawa Dam's water level was at 83 feet as of 6 p.m. on Friday, with dam failure occurring at 90 feet.
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Residents in flood-prone areas, including Otake Camp, Waialua, and Haleiwa, are urged to prepare for possible evacuations.
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Evacuation shelters are available at Wailua Height High and Intermediate School, Kahuku Elementary School, and George Fred Wright Wahiawa District Park. Residents should bring essential supplies for up to three days.
In-Depth Analysis
The evacuation warning encompasses all of Haleiwa between Puuiki Street and Kamehameha Highway, and areas of Waialua from Kukea Circle to Otake Camp. Director of the Department of Emergency Management, Randal Collins, warned that a dam failure could send water downstream rapidly, leading to catastrophic flooding. Residents needing extra time to evacuate were advised to leave immediately. The Department of Emergency Management is closely monitoring conditions and aims to initiate evacuations at least two hours before any threatening damage to the reservoir. A band of heavy rain, potentially including thunderstorms, was expected to hit the area, with forecasts predicting an additional two to five inches of rainfall. Residents are urged to monitor updates from trusted sources, including the city’s emergency alert system HNL Alert. Firefighters also rescued nine people and a dog from the Manoa-Palolo Stream due to rising waters.
FAQs
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Q: What areas are under evacuation warning?
Haleiwa (between Puuiki Street and Kamehameha Highway) and Waialua (from Kukea Circle to Otake Camp).
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Q: What should I do if I live in the evacuation zone?
Prepare to evacuate on short notice. If you need extra time, leave immediately. Gather essential supplies, including medications, important documents, and hygiene items.
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Q: Where are the evacuation shelters located?
Wailua Height High and Intermediate School, Kahuku Elementary School, and George Fred Wright Wahiawa District Park.
Key Takeaways
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Stay Informed:: Monitor local news and the HNL Alert system for updates.
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Prepare a Go-Bag:: Include medications, important documents, hygiene items, and phone chargers.
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Evacuate Early if Needed:: If you require extra time or feel unsafe, evacuate immediately.
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Know Evacuation Routes and Shelters:: Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and the locations of nearby shelters.
Discussion
Do you think the evacuation warning was issued with sufficient precaution? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
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