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Historic Floods in Hawaii Spur Widespread Animal Rescue Efforts

  • Writer: Alaina Veronique
    Alaina Veronique
  • Apr 21
  • 2 min read
Aerial view of flooding in Oahu, Hawaii. Photo by Spencer Ingley.
Aerial view of flooding in Oahu, Hawaii. Photo by Spencer Ingley.

All animals deserve protection, especially when they are most vulnerable and unable to protect themselves. In moments of crisis, that responsibility becomes even more immediate.


Hawaii is experiencing some of the most severe flooding in decades after a series of subtropical cyclones brought heavy, slow-moving storms to the islands. Torrential rains—reaching up to 30 inches in some areas—have submerged entire neighbourhoods, damaged hundreds of homes, and flooded farmlands, causing millions of dollars in losses. Forecasters warn that additional flash floods may hit in the coming days (Voiland 2026). 


While people work to stay safe and recover, animal welfare groups have mobilized quickly to rescue and care for pets and livestock affected by the disaster.


Teams from national and local organizations are conducting daily search and rescue missions to find animals in distress. The American Humane Society is distributing vital supplies like pet food and water, leashes, collars, bowls, and microchips to help families keep their animals safe (Moore 2026).


One standout group in this effort is Rescue Kitties of Hawaii, a volunteer‑run nonprofit dedicated to saving abandoned, injured, special‑needs, and homeless cats across the islands. Their work traditionally focuses on urgent medical care, trap‑neuter‑return‑manage (TNRM) efforts, fostering, and placing cats in permanent homes (Rescue Kitties of Hawaii n.d).


Because Hawaii’s cat population far outpaces local adoption opportunities, RKH partners with mainland rescue groups and flies adoptable cats and kittens to partner organizations where demand for adoption is higher (Rescue Kitties of Hawaii n.d).


Since the flooding began, RKH volunteers—already stretched thin caring for critically sick and injured cats—have expanded their rescue efforts to help animals of all kinds displaced by the storms. Led by Maraya Dawn, the group has rescued kittens, dogs, baby goats, chicks, and even pregnant cats. Dawn is also working to provide free veterinary care on Molokai, an island without on-site vet services. To date, pets of 80 residents have received treatment, with additional clinics planned in April (Moore 2026).


Beyond rescue operations, volunteers are also helping families secure temporary shelter for their pets until permanent housing can be restored. Under normal circumstances, rescued animals are held for five days to allow owners a chance to locate their missing pets. In response to the flooding, that holding period has been extended to two weeks. After this period, the Hawaii Humane Society, with support from Greater Good Charities, works to find safe, loving new homes for animals that remain unclaimed (Black 2026).


In times of crisis, the dedication of animal rescuers and the generosity of supporters make a profound difference. As Hawaii recovers from these historic floods, every contribution—big or small—helps vulnerable animals receive the safety, care, and loving homes they deserve. The tireless efforts of organizations like Rescue Kitties of Hawaii underscore the compassion and commitment of the community in protecting animals during this unprecedented disaster.





Sources

Black, Abbie. “Hawaiian Humane Society Rescues More than 170 Animals After Oahu 

Moore, Bryce. “Hawaii Storm Animal Rescue Efforts.” KHON2, March 26, 2026.  

Voiland, Adam. “Kona Storms Flood Oʻahu.” NASA Science, March 25, 2026. 

Rescue Kitties of Hawaii. “Flights.” Rescue Kitties of Hawaii. Accessed March 2026. 


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