Waialua Recovery

Editor’s note: In the recording Tony Robles says he is speaking from the community center on the island of Hawaii. The community center is actually located on the island of Oahu. Hawaii, is the big island, a separate island. However, all of the islands that make up Hawaii have been severely impacted.

Waialua is a small farming community that is currently dealing with severe flooding that residents say is unlike anything they have experienced before. The damage across the area is spread far and wide with many homes heavily impacted and some residents forced to evacuate due to concerns over possible dam failure. Despite the scale of the disaster the community response has been quick, efficient, and significant. Hundreds, of volunteers and local groups have come in to assist with cleanup efforts. Neighbors and volunteers are working together to remove debris and begin restoring damaged homes.

One of the major ongoing issues is water safety. The local water supply has been contaminated, leaving residents dependent on water trucks and requiring them to boil water before use. Donations have been coming in steadily which has been a great support those affected. At this stage the most urgent needs are basic cleanup tools, especially shovels and equipment used to clear mud and debris from homes and streets. Recovery efforts are focused on making homes livable again so residents can return as soon as possible. While the physical cleanup is underway many residents are also beginning to face the reality of what they have lost which has since caused the recovery process to be both physically and emotionally challenging.

For more information or to donate: https://www.waialuacommunityassociation.org/about