On March 11, 2026 the Kona Storm continuously hit all 8 of the Hawaiian islands, resulting in severe flooding and the destruction of many community homes. Around 5,000 people had left their homes to secure safety. When the heavy rain subsided, residents went back to seeing their roads, homes, and farms destroyed and damaged. On Oahu, excessive flooding was seen in the North Shore community of Waialua, Mokuleia and Manoa, and the Waianae coast.
After the storm, many people in the Moanalua community decided to step up to repair and help families that lost everything. MoHS French Club is collecting donations and taking action, their advisor Ms. Shlegel commented, “[Most] of the donations are going towards people who lost everything,” but the French Club is not the only group stepping up. Other Moanalua High School organizations have stood up and taken action towards the aftermath of the Kona Storm, like The MoHs Music Department Boosters. It’s led by adults whose children are/were a part of the Music Department. Their original plan was to step up but “The boosters really wanted to help out the community,” Vice President Harley Sagucio continued on how they started speaking with her mom, pitching small ideas. Which then became a donation drive where people would collect donations and hand it out to communities that were affected.
When the storm hit, it didn’t just affect homes but it also impacted students, families, and schools. For Ms. Brandy Chang, the work didn’t stop when the sky cleared. On the West side of Oahu, where many of her former students and friends are, were affected. The central areas of Oahu such as Moanalua and Salt lake weren’t as impacted and her home wasn’t affected, Ms. Chang stated being involved with grassroots organizations and Hawaii Health & Harm Reduction Center, “was an opportunity to show empathy,”
As communities continue to rebuild, the Kona Storm serves as a reminder of how quickly life can change and how important it is to be prepared. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through weather alerts, create emergency plans with their families, and have essential supplies ready in case of evacuation. Simple steps like clearing drainage areas, securing important belongings, and knowing safe routes can make a difference when the next storm arrives. At Moanalua High School, the efforts of clubs, teachers, and boosters show that students are not just witnesses to these events, but active contributors to their community’s recovery. Moving forward, students and families can take what they’ve learned to stay safer during future storms by staying updated on weather alerts, creating emergency plans, and keeping supplies ready in case of evacuation. By continuing to support one another and staying prepared, the Moanalua community can face future challenges with the same strength, compassion, and unity shown in the aftermath of this storm.
