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President Trump Approves Disaster Relief for Hawaii for Kona Low Storms

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Thousands of homes and businesses were damaged or destroyed by heavy rain and strong winds by recent Kona Low storms; even roadways, like the one pictured here on Oahu, was damaged by the storms. Image: County of Honolulu
Thousands of homes and businesses were damaged or destroyed by heavy rain and strong winds by recent Kona Low storms; even roadways, like the one pictured here on Oahu, was damaged by the storms. Image: County of Honolulu

President Donald Trump has approved a Major Disaster Declaration to provide Individual Assistance (IA) and Public Assistance (PA) for the state of Hawaii following the severe Kona Low storms that caused widespread flooding and damage statewide in March.

The declaration authorizes federal assistance to support response and recovery efforts for the City and County of Honolulu, Hawai‘i county and Maui county. FEMA will provide PA to reimburse state and county governments for emergency response and infrastructure repairs.

Federal funding is now accessible for state and eligible local governments, as well as certain nonprofit organizations, to assist with emergency efforts and repair facilities damaged by the recent severe storms. The City and County of Honolulu, Hawai‘i county and Maui county are currently in the process of securing these vital resources to aid in their recovery efforts.

“This Major Disaster Declaration is a critical step forward for Hawaiʻi as we recover from the devastating impacts of the Kona Low storms,” said Governor Green. “I’m grateful to the President and FEMA for acting quickly to approve our request because it immediately unlocks the federal resources we need to support response and long-term recovery in our state.”

“This declaration allows us to expand operations and bring critical federal resources into Hawaiʻi at a pivotal time,” said Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency Administrator James Barros. “We are working closely with county, state and federal partners to ensure support reaches the communities that need it most. Recovery will take time, but this is a major step forward in getting help where it’s needed.”

Individuals and families who sustained losses in designated areas should first file claims with their insurance providers and then apply for assistance online at www.disasterassistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, provide FEMA the number for that service. Registration is free and survivors should apply as soon as possible. The deadline for applications will be June 7, 2026; applications can be updated with additional information if the situation changes.