Heavy rains led to the dam wall, the agency said.
“The failure of the dam will result in life-threatening floods as well as significant property damage in areas downstream of the dam,” according to the National Weather Service in Honolulu.
The evacuation also comes at the same time as a warning for an instant flood.
The state stands ready to support Maui County as residents and visitors evacuate downstream from Kaupakulua Dam at this hour. Please stay out of the area until the danger has passed and continue to monitor the local media for updates, ‘Hawaii Government David Ige said in a statement.
Maui County officials recommend that people near streams also evacuate or seek higher ground. Evacuation shelters are opening in the Paia Community Center and Hana High School.
The Department of Parks and Recreation closed all parks in Maui for the rest of the day due to heavy rain and flooding.
The parks will remain closed until further notice. Parks will be judged on Tuesday for reopening.