Upcountry Maui Roads Still Blocked by Hurricane Lala Debris Months Later
Nearly three months after Hurricane Lala, storm debris and downed trees remain on Piiholo and Olinda roads in upcountry Maui, creating hazards for drivers. Residents are frustrated with the county’s slow response, and the county says it is working on addressing the concerns. Downed trees and timber from Hurricane Lala continue to block portions of […]
Three Years Later, Lahaina Survivors Still Struggling With Recovery’s Long Toll
A Civil Beat report profiles Lahaina fire survivors still dealing with mental health challenges, displacement, and ongoing rebuilding efforts nearly three years after the 2023 wildfires. One family is finally pouring a foundation for a new home while community health resources face potential shutdown. Some Lahaina survivors say their situation feels worse now than in […]
Made in Maui County Festival Draws 7,500+ Across Two-Day Event
The 13th annual Made in Maui County Festival took place Nov. 6-7 at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center, drawing more than 7,500 attendees and over 140 local vendors. Attendance was on par with the previous year despite a rainy start on Saturday. More than 7,500 people attended the two-day festival, consistent with last year’s […]
Lahaina Health Study Faces Funding Crisis After 3 Years, 2,500 Participants
A University of Hawaiʻi research program tracking the health of Lahaina wildfire survivors has enrolled 2,500 participants over three years but is now at risk of shutting down as federal and state funding sources dry up. The study, which provides health testing, therapy, and financial support to survivors, has been called a potential national model […]
Progressives Set to Control Maui County Council Starting January
Following the November election, Maui County Council is shifting to a 6-3 progressive majority, replacing a centrist bloc that has held power since 2022. Incoming members have signaled interest in issues including vacation rentals, housing, and storm recovery. Three new members will be sworn onto the Maui County Council in January, with two expected to […]
Lahaina Swim Instructor Rebuilds Home, Now Needs $30K to Restore Pool Business
Benae Basurto, a 31-year swim instructor whose Lahaina home and pool were destroyed in the 2023 fire, has completed rebuilding her living quarters but needs $30,000 to repair her pool before she can reopen Little Honu Swim School. Basurto’s Little Honu Swim School served over 120 children per week before the 2023 Lahaina wildfire destroyed […]
Hawaiian Electric Q3 2026: Storm Costs Drag Earnings, Rate Hike Decision Looms
Hawaiian Electric reported higher net income in Q3 2026, but core utility earnings fell sharply due to hurricane-related costs. The company is awaiting regulatory decisions on a 5.3% rate increase and storm-cost recovery, while managing its Maui wildfire settlement obligations. Core utility net income dropped to $27.6M from $39.6M a year earlier, driven by $13.7M […]
Maui County Clears 115 Acres of Fire-Prone Land Above Launiupoko Homes
Maui County has begun a multi-phase vegetation and debris removal project at Kapūʻali (Cut Mountain) in Launiupoko to reduce wildfire risk to nearby homes, infrastructure, and a beach park. The project, led by the Maui Emergency Management Agency, is expected to wrap up by early 2027. Hand crews and heavy equipment will clear brush, invasive […]
Tropical Storm Pena, High Surf Expected to Impact Maui This Weekend
Tropical Storm Pena is passing well south of the islands but will bring showers to windward Maui through Saturday. A second tropical system and a strong north-northwest swell may bring additional impacts Sunday into early next week. Tropical Storm Pena formed southeast of Hawaii Island and is expected to stay south of the islands, but […]
Maui Regaining Ground as Visitor Destination Compared to Kauai
A travel blog’s firsthand comparison finds Maui’s pricing and variety more competitive than its reputation suggests, with West Maui — including a rebuilding Lahaina — emerging as a notable value relative to Kauai’s luxury options. Kauai’s high-end resort prices now frequently rival Maui’s, with luxury properties on both islands reaching four figures per night. West […]