A powerful Kona low storm system has battered Hawaii since Tuesday, triggering widespread flooding, landslides, and power outages across the islands. Maui recorded over 23 inches of rain in 24 hours, while Honolulu received more than 10 inches since Tuesday, far exceeding its typical March rainfall of 2.36 inches.

Governor Josh Green ordered public schools, state offices, and University of Hawaii campuses closed on Friday as the severe weather intensified. Hawaiian Electric reported 111,000 customers without power on Oahu, the Big Island, and Maui. The storm also brought rare blizzard conditions to Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea, with over 20 inches of snow possible and winds exceeding 100 mph.

Meteorologists describe this as one of the strongest Kona storms in recent memory, capable of hurricane-level damage. The unusual weather pattern brought heavy rains to typically dry leeward areas like Waikiki, normally protected by the Koolau Mountains. While rain chances continue next week, forecasters expect conditions to gradually improve as the storm system moves northeastward by Sunday.