Oahu Floods 2026: What Happened—and How You Can Help
Oahu Floods
In March 2026, record-breaking floods struck Oahu, Hawaii, displacing thousands and devastating communities.
A Devastating Natural Disaster
The flooding was caused by intense “Kona low” storm systems that dumped large amounts of rain across the island in a short time. Some areas received over a foot of rain, which overwhelmed rivers, roads, and drainage systems.
The effects were immediate and severe:
- More than 230 people had to be rescued from rising floodwaters
- Around 5,500 residents evacuated their homes
- Homes were washed off foundations, cars submerged, and infrastructure heavily damaged
- A 120-year-old dam in Wahiawa was pushed toward failure
- Total damages are expected to exceed $1 billion
Officials describe this as the worst flooding event in Hawaii in over 20 years, with long-term recovery likely to take months or even years.
Beyond the physical destruction, families lost belongings, access to clean water was disrupted, and many communities face the difficult process of rebuilding.
A Personal Connection to the Impact
Oahu is home to many businesses, families, and communities, including Boom Photo Booth. While our team is safe, this disaster has had a direct impact on us.
Founders Jen Romano and Richard Cadan are unable to return home due to flooding and safety concerns, highlighting the widespread disruption across the community.
Relief Efforts Are Already Underway
In response to the disaster, humanitarian organizations have moved quickly to provide emergency aid. One key group involved is Convoy of Hope.
They are delivering vital supplies such as:
- Food and clean drinking water
- Emergency hygiene kits
- Relief supplies for displaced families
Their teams are working on the ground to meet immediate needs and prepare for long-term recovery.
How You Can Help
Tomorrow, Jen and Richard will head back to Waialua to bring water, food, and trash bags to the cleanup crews and displaced individuals. If you would like to help, please consider donating to @JenRomanoUX on Venmo. Every little bit helps! Support those affected by the Oahu floods in impactful ways. So far, they have already raised $3785 plus $3000 matched by Jen and Richard, almost 7 pallets of water.
Other ways to help
1. Donate to Relief Efforts
Donate—Financial gifts provide immediate relief and help long-term recovery through trusted organizations like Convoy of Hope.
2. Volunteer (If Local or Through Organizations)
If you are local or connected, volunteer with trusted groups helping on the ground.
A Moment to Show Compassion
Disasters like the Oahu floods remind us how quickly life can change. One day, families go about their routines; the next, they evacuate and seek safety.
While the road to recovery will be long, collective action—through donations, awareness, and compassion—can help these communities rebuild stronger than before.
