Hawaiian volunteers save cats from historic floods

Hawaii faces its worst flooding in 20 years, but local volunteers are not giving up. Rescue Kitties of Hawaii stepped into action when rising waters threatened cats across the islands.

This small nonprofit runs on volunteers who rescue sick and injured cats. When the floods hit, they went straight to the hardest-hit areas to find cats that needed help. Four pregnant cats now stay safe in their Molokai foster program, along with many kittens.

Molokai island has no vet office and no spay and neuter services. This makes rescue work extra important during disasters. "Leaving pregnant cats outside right now is extremely dangerous," one volunteer explained. "If we can make space, we have to bring them in so their babies don't drown."

The volunteers raised money to buy cat and dog food and supplies. They shared these with pet owners who were also stranded. Local families received large bags of supplies they truly needed.

This work builds on Hawaii's strong tradition of helping animals during disasters. When wildfires hit Maui in August 2023, volunteers flew 33 dogs and 103 cats to Oregon for emergency care. The Maui Humane Society reunited 104 pets with their families after the fires ended.

These stories show how communities can come together when disaster strikes. We can support animal rescue groups and learn from these volunteers who put animals first during emergencies.