Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (March 23, 2026) — A team of American Red Cross of Utah volunteers deployed to Hawaii yesterday to help communities devastated by flooding caused by winter storms known as Kona lows. The Utah volunteers are joining more than 100 Red Cross disaster workers supporting relief efforts for thousands of people forced from their homes.
“The storms and flooding have left a profound impact on the people of Hawaii, displacing families and destroying neighborhoods,” said Jeremiah Lafranca, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Greater Salt Lake Chapter. “Our teams are committed to helping those affected recover by providing care and resources to help them move forward. The Red Cross will remain by their side in the weeks and months ahead.”
The Utah team will be deployed for three weeks and includes Jennifer de Tapia of Salt Lake City, Donna Johnson of Layton and Rayna Rogerson of Sandy. All three are experienced Red Cross disaster volunteers who have deployed to other large-scale emergencies.
Historic Flooding Devastates Hawaii Communities
Historic flooding in Hawaii followed days of torrential rain, with Oahu hit hardest in what is believed to be the state’s worst flooding in more than 20 years. About 5,500 people were evacuated and more than 230 rescues were carried out as floodwaters damaged homes, roads and other infrastructure. Damage is expected to be extensive, affecting homes, schools, businesses, roads, airports and other facilities.
As conditions continue to change, the Red Cross is adapting to meet the immediate needs of those affected by the flooding. Red Cross disaster volunteers are coordinating with state and local officials and community partners to deliver help where it is needed most. Red Cross volunteers have opened 18 emergency shelters in affected areas, providing evacuees with food, a warm, dry place to sleep and emotional support. Additional shelter locations and relief supplies are being evaluated as the response continues.
Support Disaster Relief
Support people affected by disasters such as floods, storms and other crises by making a Red Cross Disaster Relief donation at redcross.org/Help, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or texting REDCROSS to 90999. Donations help the Red Cross prepare for, respond to and help communities recover when disasters strike.
Become a Red Cross Volunteer Today
The Red Cross is seeking additional volunteers in Utah to meet the growing demand for disaster response. After training, volunteers are prepared to assist during local emergencies and, with additional training and experience, deploy to major disasters nationwide. To learn more about becoming a volunteer, visit redcross.org/DAT.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
