Poipu residents reeling after Hurricane Lowell's destruction

Sep 08, 2026

Hurricane Lowell tore through Kauai's south shore, wrecking homes and roads in Poipu — devastating for residents and stranding visitors with no power or phone service.

  • At least a dozen homes were destroyed when 30-foot waves and storm surge hit late in the evening.
  • Families fled with go-bags after hearing a rumbling sound and smelling the ocean as water seeped in.
  • Roads are buckled or blocked, Baby Beach is essentially gone, and a beach parking lot near the Sheraton was torn apart.
  • Power and cell service are out across the area, so many people have no way to get information.
  • Kauai's airport is open but flights were canceled through the morning, leaving visitors unsure when they can leave.

Outlook: Crews are working to clear routes to the east and west sides, but cleanup and rebuilding in Poipu will take a long time.

← Latest · Archive