Naalehu Cemetery destroyed by flooding, remains scattered

Aug 19, 2026

Torrential rain tore apart a cemetery in Naalehu on Hawaii's Big Island, washing caskets and human remains down the road — a devastating blow to families who have buried generations there.

  • Burial plots on the lower side of the cemetery were washed away, leaving bones and caskets scattered across the road and highway.
  • Families now face reburying loved ones, a long process that means grieving all over again.
  • The community is asking outsiders to stay away, and the route up is dangerous, with debris piled high and a power pole still leaning.
  • Naalehu is without water and electricity, and the Punaluu Bake Shop was badly damaged and will stay closed for a long time.
  • Roadside hubs are handing out free food, water and propane, with volunteers delivering to elders who can't get out.

Outlook: National Guard and county crews are moving in, but clearing debris and recovering remains will take weeks, and residents still need water, food and generators.

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