Multiple sources report that Maui County has assessed approximately $100 million in damage from the March Kona Low storms, affecting 92 county-owned infrastructure locations island-wide. Combined with the ongoing $2.36 billion in wildfire recovery needs, the county now faces a total known recovery burden of roughly $2.47 billion. Officials note the current fiscal year budget did not account for the Kona Low losses, and the county must front repair costs before seeking federal reimbursement.
- Damage was recorded at 92 county-owned infrastructure locations spanning East, West, Central, and South Maui, Upcountry, and Molokaʻi
- John Smith, administrator of the Office of Recovery, presented the damage assessment to the county council committee on disaster recovery, international affairs and planning
- The newly approved fiscal year budget did not account for the Kona Low storm losses
- Worst-hit areas include flood damage in Hāna, Molokaʻi, and ʻĪao Valley; a sinkhole on South Kīhei Road; major sediment buildup in Kīhei gulches; and the Kula Upcountry Gym, described as ‘a total loss’
- The federal government typically reimburses 75% of eligible repair costs, but the county must pay upfront first
- FEMA has already approved millions in assistance for affected households
- SBA disaster loan applications can still be submitted through August 13; as of last Wednesday, the SBA had approved more than $11 million across 170 applicants (Thecooldown)
Sources
- Thecooldown: Maui County puts Kona Low storm damage above $100 million, with ‘sinkholes everywhere’
- Yahoo: Maui County puts Kona Low storm damage above $100 million, with ‘sinkholes everywhere’
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