Media release | Office of the Governor

HONOLULU – Governor Neil Abercrombie today signed a State of Disaster Proclamation after learning of millions of dollars in damages as a result of the tsunami that swept through the islands earlier this morning. The proclamation is the first step in the process of seeking and receiving federal funds to recover and rebuild.

“The Obama Administration is aware that this Pacific-wide tsunami has had an impact on our state,” said Governor Abercrombie. “Damages to government facilities, private businesses and residential property are estimated in the millions.”

The tsunami was the result of an 8.9 magnitude earthquake that shook Japan at 7:46 p.m. HST on March 10, 2011. Earlier today, Governor Abercrombie, Lieutenant Governor Brian Schatz, and Hawai’i Tourism Authority President Mike McCartney visited with the Consulate General of Japan. The Governor extended Hawaii’s support to the people of Japan.

“Our hearts go out to the people of Japan who have suffered and continue to suffer immeasurable loss as a result of this major earthquake, tsunami, and aftershocks. As one island people to another, we stand with them in solidarity and in sympathy for the challenges they face,” said Governor Abercrombie.

HTA President Mike McCartney added, “The visitor industry is working to ensure that we take care of the Japanese visitors who are in Hawai’i now. Our friendship with Japan goes back generations.”

By early afternoon all airports were fully functioning.

“We want to make clear to all that the State of Hawai’i is open for business. We welcome all visitors and are ready to serve them,” noted McCartney.

The Governor praised the collaborative teamwork of all federal, state, and county agencies led by State Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Darryll D.M. Wong and Vice Director of State Civil Defense Ed Teixeira.

Governor Abercrombie said, “Last night made it clear that we have a top-notch coordinated and collaborative response to ensure the health and safety of the public no matter what comes our way. I want to thank everyone who worked throughout the evening and into the morning, proving once again that there is no challenge too big when we work together with aloha.”

To view today’s State of Disaster Proclamation announcement please visit http://hawaii.gov/gov.