Statement on the City’s Response To The Recent Kona Low Storms

March 27th, 2026

“Communities across Oʻahu are still recovering from the Kona Low storms, and for many families, the crisis is not over. When disaster strikes, the government's response should be immediate, coordinated, and effective. The city has disaster preparedness plans, emergency response agencies, and recovery systems built precisely for this moment. 

This hearing is about facts, timelines, accountability, results, and future support systems. The Council expects the Department of Emergency Management to explain what actions were taken, when they were taken, how agencies coordinated, and whether the response reached the hardest-hit communities in time. 

The Council's job is to identify what worked, what failed, and what must change. If laws, policies, or agency protocols are slowing recovery, the Council would like to understand from the departments how they can act to address and potentially improve the city’s response so that next time, families get faster and stronger support. “ - Chair Tommy Waters

This official statement was published in the Star Advertiser.

Reporter: Victoria Budiono | ARTICLE