RKF Jr. declares public health emergency for Hawaii in wake of storms

April 22, 2026 - 11:29

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has officially declared a public health emergency for the state of Hawaii, responding to the severe aftermath of the powerful Kona-low storms that battered the islands in March. The declaration, announced by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., unlocks critical federal resources and funding to support local healthcare systems and emergency response efforts.

The Kona-low weather system unleashed torrential rainfall, widespread flooding, and damaging winds across multiple Hawaiian islands, leading to significant infrastructure damage and displacing numerous residents. The emergency designation allows the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to temporarily waive or modify certain requirements for healthcare providers, ensuring that hospitals and clinics can continue to operate and treat patients without administrative delays. This includes expedited access to medical supplies, temporary staffing, and the ability to set up mobile treatment units in affected areas.

Furthermore, the declaration activates the HHS Secretary’s authority to deploy personnel from the National Disaster Medical System (NDMS) to supplement local medical teams. These teams are equipped to provide emergency medical care, mental health support, and public health assessments in communities cut off by floodwaters or damaged roads. The move underscores the federal government’s commitment to mitigating the long-term health risks posed by contaminated water, mold exposure, and disrupted access to routine medical care. As recovery efforts continue, officials urge residents to remain vigilant against waterborne illnesses and to seek assistance through local emergency management channels.