Oahu Evacuations Triggered as Wahiawa Dam Faces Potential Failure

Two powerful storms drenched Hawaii, pushing Wahiawa Dam on Oahu toward potential failure from overtopping and prompting evacuation orders for Waialua and Haleiwa, affecting about 4,000 residents. The 1906, 9,200-acre-foot earthen dam, owned by Dole and forming Lake Wilson, has a spillway that could be overwhelmed in a major flood. Officials say the risk is evolving, with flood watches in effect and more rain expected; Governor Josh Green urged residents to evacuate as state offices closed except emergency management.