Hawaii is facing its worst flooding in more than 20 years as muddy floodwaters from heavy rains have forced 5,500 people to evacuate northern Oahu. The National Weather Service issued flash flood warnings as parts of the island received up to 16 inches of rain in 24 hours. Gov. Josh Green warned the storm could cause over $1 billion in damage across the state.

Officials are closely monitoring the 120-year-old Wahiawa dam, which was just 6 feet from capacity before water levels receded. The earthen dam, built in 1906 for sugar production and later owned by Dole Food Company, has a history of safety concerns. The state has sent four deficiency notices to Dole since 2009 and fined the company $20,000 five years ago for failing to address safety issues.

Rescue crews have saved more than 200 people, including 72 children and adults airlifted from a spring break camp. While no deaths have been reported, the flooding has damaged dozens of homes and infrastructure across Oahu. With more rain expected in the coming days, officials remain on high alert for potential dam failure and continued flooding across the islands.