LIHUE, Hawaii — On Tuesday, the federal government approved a major disaster declaration for Kauai for the April 2024 flood, according to a news release.  

In April, heavy rain and flooding impacted Kauai, causing school, park and road closures, spills at two Wastewater Treatment Plants, and multiple rescues. 

The federal government’s declaration triggers disaster relief from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation programs. Through the programs, local governments and certain nonprofits are eligible for emergency work and repairs on a cost-sharing basis. 

“We are incredibly grateful to our federal partners for recognizing the significant damages sustained to our island’s infrastructure as a result of the severe flooding this past April,” said Mayor Derek Kawakami in a statement. “Through this crucial support, we remain on course to address needed repairs, rebuild, and enhance our resiliency against future disasters. We thank all partners who continue to work tirelessly during this recovery period, and most of all, to our residents and all impacted for their ongoing patience.”

The federal government programs will allow the County of Kauai to repair public infrastructure. Also, the funds from the Hazard Mitigation Grant will go toward preventing future disasters by investing in long-term resilience projects.

The Kauai Emergency Management Agency will coordinate applications for these programs.