Hurricane Kenneth (2005) - Impact and Aftermath

Impact and Aftermath

The remnants of Kenneth produced rainfall in the Hawaiian Islands when they interacted with an upper-level trough, causing some reports of flash flooding. At Nu‘uanu Pali on Oahu, a gauge recorded a total precipitation of 10.25 inches (260.4 mm); the gauge also reported 1.6 inches (40 mm) in 15 minutes, as well as 4.11 inches (104 mm) in one hour. Peak rainfall totals on Oahu included reports of up to 12 inches (305 mm), which puts Kenneth in a three-way tie for ninth on Hawaii's rainiest tropical cyclones list, along with Diana in 1972 and a system dubbed "B" from the 1967 season. On October 1, rains caused the Kaukonahua Stream to burst its banks and Lake Wilson to overflow behind the Wahiawa Dam. The rainfall produced up to 1 foot (300 mm) of flowing water on Pali Highway, leading to surface runoff which flooded a few homes.

On Kauai, the six-hour total at Mount Waialeale was 6.17 inches (157 mm). Flash flooding occurred on the Hanalei River, which resulted in the closure of the Kuhio Highway at the Hanalei Bridge. Rapid water level rises also occurred on the Wailua River and the Hanapepe River, though no significant damages were reported along these waterways.

Large swells churned up by Kenneth generated surf of 8–10 ft (2–3 m) that crashed ashore on September 30 along the east shores of the islands of Hawaii, Kauai, Molokai, Maui, and Oahu. No reports of injuries or serious damage were received.

During the 61st Interdepartmental Hurricane Conference, the Hawaii State Civil Defense requested the retirement of the name Kenneth, citing that the storm had become memorable due to threat or damage. However, the World Meteorological Organization did not approve the request, and the name is on the list to be reused for the 2011 season.