Since its construction, the Ala Wai Canal has overflowed and flooded the surrounding neighborhoods at least three times.  The flood of November, 1965 resulted from high intensity rainfall from what would be considered a 25-year event.  Parts of Waikiki were reported to have been submerged under two feet of water.  The flood of December, 1967 again caused the Canal to overflow, this time also inundating the elementary school on the mauka bank under 6-12 inches of water.  Additionally, the passing of Hurricane ‘Iniki in 1992 caused overtopping of the Canal banks and flooding in Waikiki.

from http://www.alawaicanalproject.net

Editor's Note: This scene is a forewarning of what is to come as the sea level rise throughout the world. See this page for how it will impact Waikiki in the years to come.