DLNR Kona Low Storm Response
Following severe storm systems earlier this year, GAO rapidly deployed across Oʻahu, Maui, and Kauaʻi to map reef impact for Hawaiʻi's Department of Land and Natural Resources.
Earlier this year, a series of Kona low storm systems brought heavy rain and runoff to the Hawaiian Islands, raising concerns about sediment plumes and nearshore reef damage.
In response, GAO rapidly deployed statewide flight lines across Oʻahu, Maui, and Kauaʻi — mapping sediment plumes and identifying critical reef impact zones for the Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Resources.
The rapid-response nature of this mission demonstrates one of GAO's core capabilities — the ability to mobilize quickly when environmental events demand immediate, high-resolution data.