Kemoo 5 Reservoir Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Kemoo 5 Reservoir, located in Thompson Corner, Honolulu, Hawaii, is a private water storage facility primarily used for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1920, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 21 meters and has a storage capacity of 63 million cubic meters. With a surface area of 4.4 hectares and a drainage area of 0.01 hectares, the reservoir is fed by the Kaukonahua Stream offstream, making it a vital water resource for the region.
Despite its historical significance, Kemoo 5 Reservoir poses a high hazard potential and has been rated as being in poor condition. The last inspection in May 2018 revealed the need for extensive maintenance and rehabilitation. Additionally, the reservoir has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, indicating the importance of implementing effective risk management measures. With a maximum discharge capacity of 167 cubic meters per second, it is crucial to ensure the safety and stability of this essential water infrastructure for the surrounding community.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and management of facilities like Kemoo 5 Reservoir become even more critical. With its location in a region prone to natural disasters, such as floods and droughts, the need for regular inspections, emergency preparedness, and risk mitigation strategies is paramount. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is vital to advocate for the proper care and maintenance of such infrastructure to ensure the sustainable management of water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
650 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
KAUKONAHUA STREAM OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
0.01 |
Nid Storage |
63 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Makaha Str Nr Makaha
|
16cfs |
Kamananui Str At Maunawai
|
84cfs |
Opaeula Str Nr Wahiawa
|
27cfs |
Kamananui Str At Pupukea Mil Rd
|
15cfs |
Sf Kaukonahua Str At E Pump
|
34cfs |
Nf Kaukonahua Str Abv Rb
|
13cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Kemoo 5 Reservoir