A series of Kona low storms and seven Pacific tropical cyclones have significantly accelerated coastal erosion on Maui’s South and West shores in 2026. Beach parks are partially closed, sandbags line shrinking shorelines, and experts warn that ongoing El Niño conditions could make recovery even harder.
- Portions of beach parks in South Maui are roped off and West Maui shoreline walkways are blocked due to storm-driven erosion damage.
- Seven tropical cyclones have passed through the Central Pacific since July, compounding erosion that began with consecutive Kona low storms in March.
- Experts say cumulative ‘episodic erosion’ events are preventing beaches from naturally recovering between storms.
- Strengthening El Niño conditions heading into 2027 are expected to further slow shoreline recovery.
- State officials say coastal erosion was already a decade-long crisis before this year’s storms created what they call ‘new crisis spots.’
Source: Dredgewire
Share this article
