HONOLULU (KHON2) — We recently learned that Hawaiʻi has the third-worst economy in the United States, but a new report shows us a different side of the state.
Hawaiʻi has been ranked the third most prepared state for natural disasters in the United States. That’s according to the new 2025 data study. Only Vermont and Massachusetts ranked higher.
This list looked at 14 measures that included emergency planning, disaster funding and how well a community can bounce back. The report used numbers from the U.S. Census Bureau, FEMA and other government sources.
Hawaiʻi earned high marks for its disaster prevention plans and funding. It also ranked well in disaster risk and recovery.
Out of 50 states, Hawaiʻi placed sixth for its planning and seventh for disaster risk and lasting damage. For resilience and support systems, Hawaiʻi ranked 22nd.
These scores show that Hawaiʻi has invested in strong disaster plans and has support in place for when something goes wrong. With hurricanes, floods and other disasters always a threat, being prepared matters.
Understanding the ranking
The ranking is based on a comprehensive evaluation of various factors that contribute to disaster preparedness. Hawaiʻi’s high position reflects its efforts in areas such as infrastructure, planning and community resilience.
Key factors contributing to Hawaiʻi’s preparedness
Several elements have contributed to Hawaiʻi’s strong preparedness ranking, according to the report:
- Resilience infrastructure and support capacity: Hawaiʻi has invested in building robust infrastructure and support systems to withstand and recover from disasters.
- Disaster prevention planning and funding: The state has developed and funded comprehensive disaster prevention plans to mitigate risks.
- Disaster risk and lasting damage: Hawaiʻi has implemented strategies to reduce disaster risks and minimize long-term damage.
You can click here to read the full report.
Ongoing efforts to maintain and improve preparedness
While Hawaiʻi’s ranking is commendable, ongoing efforts are essential to maintain and enhance disaster preparedness.
Continuous evaluation and improvement of strategies ensure the state remains resilient in the face of future challenges.