Multiple sources, including Maui County and the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, report that trace levels of selenium were detected for the first time in the Wailuku water system serving Māʻalaea, Kīhei, Wailea, and Mākena. Health officials say the detected levels are well below federal and state safety limits and are unlikely to pose a public health risk. The Maui Department of Water Supply remains in compliance and will continue monitoring.
- Selenium was first detected in routine water samples collected May 27, 2026, with follow-up testing on June 18, 2026 confirming the findings.
- Detected levels ranged from 2.4 to 6.5 micrograms per liter — well below the EPA and Hawaii DOH maximum contaminant level of 50 micrograms per liter.
- The affected water system serves the Māʻalaea, Kīhei, Wailea, and Mākena areas of Maui.
- The specific wells involved are Waiheʻe Wells 1, 2, and 3 Chlorinator and Kupaa Well 1 Chlorinator. (Einpresswire)
- Maui DWS notified the Hawaii Department of Health via phone and email on August 3, 2026, as required by state law.
- Under state law, DOH must notify the public within 14 days of being notified by the water purveyor; DOH allowed MDWS to issue the public notice first. (Einpresswire)
- Selenium is a naturally occurring mineral element; its presence in drinking water is typically caused by erosion of natural mineral deposits.
- The Maui Department of Water Supply says it remains in full compliance with federal and state drinking water standards and will continue monitoring.
Sources
- Honolulu Star-Advertiser: Trace levels of selenium detected in Maui water system
- Maui County: Trace levels of selenium detected in Wailuku water system
- Einpresswire: TRACE LEVELS OF SELENIUM DETECTED IN WAILUKU WATER SYSTEM
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