The April 2014 flood event in Honiara caused 24 deaths and significantly impacted local infrastructure including bridges, businesses and houses. This study examines the causes of this event, its severity in the context of historical events and how the impact of future could be reduced.
Satellite and rainfall data were examined over the period from 1st of April to the 5th of April and compared with historical data. Satellite images show that the unprecedented flooding was the result of a slow moving tropical depression South-West of Guadalcanal. This system brought torrential rain to Northern Guadalcanal, causing river systems to overflow and flood large sections of Honiara. 
Rainfall measurements showed that 298.6 mm of rain fell at the peak of the event on April 3rd, the highest daily rainfall ever recorded in Honiara. Additionally, 732.6 mm of rain fell over the four day period from 1st - 4th of April, surpassing the previous record for the entire month of April (640.8 mm). Finally, this event contributed to a monthly rainfall total of 952 mm, the second wettest month ever recorded in Honiara. 
The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) is the primary source of weather information in the Solomon Islands. To improve the provision of essential information during disasters the SIMS is working to build better linkages with key agencies such as disaster management, water resources, food security and health. It is hoped that closer interagency cooperation will improve disaster early warning and assist relief efforts in affected areas