Sirens sounded in the coastal area of Oahu, which is world-renowned as a surfing spot, the AP reported.
Officials have warned local residents that there is a risk of an imminent collapse of the Wahiava Dam.
There have been no reports of deaths or injuries, but firefighters and rescue workers are scouring the floodwaters for people who were trapped, Honolulu city spokesman Ian Schering said.
“We have reports that several houses were swept away by the torrent, but the exact number is not known,” he said.
Officials have been monitoring water levels since a storm last week led to catastrophic flooding that swept away roads and homes.
Forecasters predicted the storm would bring more rain this weekend.
Hawaii Governor Josh Green announced on social media that the National Guard had been activated to respond to the flooding.
Honolulu Department of Emergency Management spokeswoman Molly Pierce said the evacuation order covers more than 4,000 people, though the number could be higher.
Seven people died in 2006 when the Ka Loko Dam on the island of Kauai collapsed, the AP recalled.
(Vijesti.ba)
