Hawaii is beginning a major cleanup after Hurricane Lowell battered the western islands with powerful winds, heavy rain and dangerous surf, leaving widespread damage across Kauai and other parts of the state. The storm passed west of the islands without making a direct landfall, but Kauai and Niihau took some of the hardest hits.
More than 36,000 utility customers — roughly 90% of Kauai’s electric customers — were without power Tuesday morning as crews began assessing extensive damage to the island’s electrical system. Fallen trees and debris blocked roads, flooding and coastal surge damaged infrastructure, and residents were urged to limit travel while emergency crews worked to restore services.
Several major roads on Kauai were closed after the storm, while high surf pushed sand, rocks and debris inland. At Port Allen Small Boat Harbor, several boats sank and piers were damaged. State and county offices, Kauai Community College and public schools on Kauai will remain closed through Friday as crews restore power, clear debris and determine whether buildings and roads are safe.
Oahu also experienced heavy rain, high surf and power outages as Lowell moved past the state. One man died Monday evening after a tree fell on his tent, according to Gov. Josh Green. Conditions have since improved enough for schools and government offices on Oahu to reopen Wednesday, while recovery efforts remain concentrated on Kauai.
Lowell has moved away from the Hawaiian Islands and weakened, but the aftermath remains significant. Emergency officials continue to warn residents about downed power lines, damaged roads and other hazards as utility and public works crews move through affected communities.
The Readovia Lens
Hurricane Lowell never had to make landfall to deliver a damaging blow to Hawaii. With much of Kauai losing electricity and roads, schools and public services disrupted, the storm demonstrates how powerful winds, flooding and coastal surge can leave communities facing a major recovery even when the center of a hurricane stays offshore.
