Home / Disasters and Accidents / Hawaii Guard Ends Storm Relief Mission
Hawaii Guard Ends Storm Relief Mission
31 May
Summary
- Hawaii National Guard concluded support for storm relief efforts.
- Around 500 soldiers and airmen were activated for response.
- Islands brace for potential 'Super El Niño' impacts this summer.
The Hawaii National Guard has officially ended its support operations for relief efforts stemming from two Kona-low storms and subsequent severe weather events that impacted the islands earlier this year. The Guard activated approximately 500 soldiers and airmen to aid in community recovery, focusing on areas with prolonged utility disruptions in the final days of the mission.
Throughout the storms, Guard personnel were involved in a range of critical tasks, including high-water rescues, evacuations, supplying fresh water, clearing debris, and filling sandbags. The Guard reported assisting 138 individuals and three dogs through ground crews, and air crews rescued 47 people and two dogs. Significant quantities of water were distributed to thousands impacted by the weather.
As this relief mission concludes, Hawaii faces potential new threats. Officials are bracing for a "Super El Niño" expected this summer, which scientists predict could heighten the risk of hurricanes and wildfires across the islands. The Hawaii National Guard has stated its readiness to support civil authorities and residents for these upcoming challenges.
