According to the Honolulu Civil Beat and the Associated Press, emergency repair crews began fixing the only cargo port on one of Hawaii’s smallest main islands and restoring power across the island on Thursday, two days after Hurricane Lowell passed along Hawaii’s western edge. The storm triggered flash flooding, damaged oceanfront resorts, and left at least two people dead, prompting Gov. Josh Green to request a major disaster declaration from President Donald Trump.
Kauai Infrastructure Damage and Tourism Impact Following Hurricane Lowell
Hurricane Lowell’s powerful storm surge buckled roads, knocked down home walls, and flooded resorts on Kauai, sending rapids through a hotel lobby according to the Associated Press. Thousands of customers, including several resorts, remained without power while crews cleared downed trees and utility poles. Caroline Anderson, interim president and chief executive officer of the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority, urged travelers to reschedule trips or shift destinations to other islands to support the broader visitor economy during the recovery.
Kauai accounts for a small fraction of Hawaii’s nearly 10 million annual visitors, but tourism drives its economy, supporting roughly four out of every ten local jobs. Kelly Kakalia, co-owner of The Musubi Truck on Kauai, noted that the island needs time to rebuild its water and power infrastructure before welcoming tourists back. Extensive lines formed at Kauai’s primary airport on Thursday as visitors tried to depart.
Did you know? Hurricane Lowell’s overall destruction is projected to be the worst from a storm since Hurricane Iniki struck Kauai as a Category 4 storm in 1992, causing $3 billion in damage.
Lanai Harbor Disruptions and Federal Disaster Declaration Request
On the island of Lanai, the storm opened a sinkhole, damaged parts of the pier, and scattered containers in the water at the main harbor, rendering it inoperable for an estimated two weeks according to the state’s Transportation Department. The harbor supplies much of the food and fuel for Lanai’s 3,300 residents. State officials are planning alternative supply routes for the island, which billionaire Larry Ellison purchased nearly in entirety in 2012 for about $300 million from Castle & Cooke Inc.
To expedite federal assistance, Democratic Gov. Josh Green formally asked President Donald Trump on Wednesday to issue a major disaster declaration covering Kauai and Maui counties. “We cannot wait for every damaged road, utility pole, harbor and public facility to be assigned a dollar value before asking the federal government to act,” Green stated.
Storm-Related Fatalities Reported Across Kauai and Oahu
At least two deaths are linked to Hurricane Lowell. First responders on Kauai’s south end discovered the body of a 74-year-old man near the shoreline on Wednesday, with local police stating they believe the death was related to the storm surge. On Oahu, a homeless man living in a park was killed Monday when a large tree fell on his tent during the storm, according to Gov. Josh Green.
Ahead of the storm, the National Hurricane Center issued tropical storm warnings for Kauai and Niihau. Forecasters predicted rainfall totals of 6 to 10 inches with maximums reaching 14 inches, alongside coastal flooding of up to 3 feet from storm surge and tides.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Hurricane Lowell impact Hawaii?
Hurricane Lowell skirted along Hawaii’s western edge on Monday and Tuesday, bringing high winds, storm surge, and heavy rain to Kauai, Niihau, and Oahu.
What damage occurred on Lanai?
According to the state’s Transportation Department, the storm damaged Lanai’s main harbor by opening a sinkhole, damaging part of the pier, and scattering containers in the water, affecting the supply route for food and fuel.
How can travelers help Kauai right now?
The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority advises visitors to reschedule trips to Kauai or shift their itineraries to other Hawaiian islands while local crews restore power and clear roads.
Who requested federal aid for Hawaii?
Democratic Gov. Josh Green asked President Donald Trump on Wednesday for a major disaster declaration to expedite federal assistance for Kauai and Maui counties.
Explore More: Stay updated on Hawaii weather events, local recovery efforts, and regional infrastructure developments by subscribing to our newsletter or checking our latest storm coverage.
Worth a look