‘Unreal Storm Gusts Tear Roofs Off Oahu Homes, Displacing 12 Residents’
Severe winds have wreaked havoc in Oahu, leaving destruction in their wake. On Sunday, gusts ripped roofs off 22 buildings, including an apartment complex in Nanakuli.
Impact of Fierce Winds in Oahu
The Honolulu Fire Department reported significant damage across the region. Among the structures affected, the roof of a Nanakuli apartment on Helelua Street was blown off, displacing 12 residents. Neighbor Makayla Rivera described the chaos, noting her brothers narrowly escaped debris.
Incidents Captured on Camera
In Salt Lake, a nearby resident filmed a powerful gust demolishing a roof on Ala Aloalo Street. “It was unreal,” remarked Ricky Almodova, who witnessed the incident. Thankfully, the two-story residence was vacant, resulting in no injuries.
Emergency Response and Damage Reports
Since Saturday, emergency services have received nearly 100 calls. Details of the incidents include:
- 60 calls for downed trees
- 22 calls regarding blown roofs
- 11 calls for downed power lines
“If there is damage, we want to ensure homeowners understand the next steps,” stated Sharilyn Tanaka, Executive Vice President of Atlas Insurance Agency. She emphasized the importance of filing an insurance claim, even if coverage is uncertain.
Advice for Homeowners
Tanaka recommends homeowners provide detailed information when making claims. This includes:
- Taking photos and videos of the damage
- Documenting specific details of the incident
- Providing any relevant surveillance footage
Additionally, Hawaiian Electric has informed customers that they have 30 days to file claims for losses incurred due to power outages.
Conclusion
The recent storm in Oahu serves as a stark reminder of nature’s unpredictability. Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions as they navigate the aftermath of these unreal storm gusts.
