Haleʻiwa, home to eTurboNews for over two decades, has been devastated by historic flooding on Oʻahu’s North Shore. As the community rebuilds, we urge travelers and industry partners to support Hawaiʻi through responsible tourism, local spending, and relief efforts—standing in solidarity with the people who make these islands so special.
Hale‘iwa, O‘ahu — For more than two decades, eTurboNews had called Haleʻiwa home. From this historic North Shore town—known worldwide for its surf culture, local businesses, and welcoming spirit—we have reported on global tourism while remaining deeply rooted in the community we serve. Today, that community is hurting.
A Storm That Changed Everything
In recent days, Oʻahu—and especially the North Shore communities of Haleʻiwa and Waialua—has endured what officials describe as the worst flooding in more than 20 years.
Relentless Kona storms brought extreme rainfall, triggering flash floods that:
- Destroyed homes and businesses
- Displaced thousands of residents
- Covered entire neighborhoods in mud and debris
- Forced more than 230 rescues across the islands
Damage estimates already exceed $1 billionwith Oʻahu bearing the brunt.
In Haleʻiwa—our home—streets turned into rivers. Families climbed onto rooftops. Vehicles were swept away. Lifelong residents watched their memories disappear in hours.
More Than a Destination — A Community
To many travelers, Oʻahu is Waikīkī sunsets, surf competitions, and tropical escape.
But beyond the postcards lies something deeper:
- Small, family-run businesses
- Multi-generational local communities
- A fragile ecosystem already under pressure
- A tourism economy that sustains livelihoods across the islands
Tourism is not just an industry here—it is a lifeline, supporting Hundreds of thousands of jobs and billions in economic activity statewide.
When disaster strikes, the impact goes far beyond infrastructure. It affects workers, families, and the cultural fabric of Hawaiʻi.
Tourism Continues — But With Purpose
Despite the devastation, Hawaii is not closed.
Flights are operating. Hotels are open. Visitors are still arriving—especially in areas like Waikīkī, where life has largely continued even during the storm.
But this is not business as usual.
Across Oʻahu, Maui, Kauaʻi, and the Island of Hawaiʻi:
- Some roads remain damaged or restricted
- Beaches face contamination advisories
- Attractions in affected regions are closed
- Hotels are even housing displaced residents in some cases
This is a moment where tourism must evolve—from consumption to contribution.
The Strength of Aloha
Amid the devastation, something powerful has emerged:
Community.
Volunteers have flooded into affected areas. Neighbors are helping neighbors. Local businesses are reopening as quickly as possible. Across the islands, there is a shared determination to rebuild.
This is the spirit of aloha—not just a greeting, but a way of life rooted in care, respect, and responsibility.
A Message from eTurboNews
As a publication born and based in Haleʻiwa for so long, this is personal.
We are not writing from Africa. We are writing from within the community that has been impacted. We are asking our readers—travelers, industry leaders, and global citizens—to stand with Oʻahu.
How You Can Support Oʻahu and Hawaiʻi?
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1. Don’t Cancel — Travel Responsibly
If you have plans to visit Hawaii:
- Keep your trip if conditions allow
- Stay informed about affected areas
- Avoid disaster zones such as parts of the North Shore
Your presence supports local jobs and recovery.
2. Support Local Businesses
Choose:
- Locally owned restaurants
- Small tour operators
- Community-based experiences
Every dollar spent locally helps rebuild lives.
3. Donate to Verified Relief Efforts
Authorities and community organizations are coordinating aid for families who have lost homes and livelihoods. Even small contributions make a difference.
eTurboNews was a member of the Northshore Chamber of Commerce and can vouch for the trustworthiness of this local non-profit to make a difference when donating to them Flood relief fund.
North Shore Chamber of Commerce-Oahu
North Shore Chamber of Commerce—supporting local businesses, preserving culture, and promoting sustainable community growth in Haleʻiwa, Waialua, Kahuku, and beyond.”
4. Travel with respect
This is not a time for insensitive tourism.
Visitors should:
- Respect closures and safety warnings
- Be mindful of cultural and community sensitivities
- Understand that some areas are grieving and rebuilding
A turning point for tourism
This disaster is not just a crisis—it is a wake-up call.
Hawaiʻi has long been at the center of a global conversation about sustainable and regenerative tourism. Events like this highlight the urgency of:
- Reducing environmental strain
- Supporting local communities
- Rethinking how tourism interacts with fragile destinations
The future of travel to Hawaiʻi—and places like it—depends on this shift.
From Haleʻiwa to the World
Now publishing from Berlin, Germany, Haleʻiwa has been our home from 1999 to 2024.
We have celebrated its beauty, reported its stories, and welcomed the world through our pages. Now, we ask the world to give back.
Stand with Oahu. Support Hawaii. Travel with purpose.
Because tourism is not just about visiting a place—It’s about being part of its future.
