Senator Brian Schatz Addresses Lahaina Disaster and Climate Change in Senate

On September 24, 2026, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz addressed issues concerning the Lahaina disaster on the Senate floor. Schatz discussed the compounding effects of recent severe weather in Hawai'i, including Hurricanes Lala and Lowell. He noted that during Hurricane Lowell, 90% of the island of Kaua‘i lost power, while residents of Hawai‘i Island were recovering from Hurricane Lala, which damaged 267 homes and critical infrastructure.

Schatz attributed the increasing frequency of such destructive events to the warming planet. He stressed the need for the federal government to assist communities not only in responding to disasters but also in preparing for them, citing the constant cycle of severe weather and recovery efforts.