Maui’s Mineral-Only Sunscreen Law Blocks New FDA-Approved Ingredient
The FDA approved its first new sunscreen ingredient in decades, but Maui County’s mineral-only sunscreen law prohibits visitors from using products containing the new chemical filter bemotrizinol. Maui County’s 2022 ordinance allows only mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, blocking the new FDA-approved bemotrizinol ingredient. The new ingredient bemotrizinol offers improved UVA protection […]
Armed Robbery Near Ho’okipa Beach Involves Carjacking and Shooting
A couple was robbed at gunpoint and shot near Ho’okipa Beach early Wednesday morning, with the suspect stealing their vehicle before abandoning it in Haiku. Police are still searching for the suspects who fled on foot. A 46-year-old male and 53-year-old female were confronted by an armed suspect who demanded their vehicle on Hana Highway […]
Iao Valley Heritage Park Reopens After March Storm Damage Repairs
Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens at Iao Valley has reopened following repairs from severe March storm damage, though two picnic pavilions remain closed. The county park reopened Saturday after being closed since March due to Kona low storm damage. Severe erosion and flooding undercut two picnic pavilions, which remain closed for ongoing repairs. All seven cultural heritage […]
Maui County Opens $850K Makahiki Grant Program for Cultural Events
Maui County launched a new grant program offering $850,000 to fund Makahiki season events, festivals, and cultural activities. Applications are open through July 10 for organizations wanting to create programs that celebrate Hawaiian culture and engage both residents and visitors. The County’s Office of Economic Development is accepting grant applications through July 10, 2026 for […]
Channel Islands Fire Burns Third of Santa Rosa Island, Recovery Underway
Multiple news sources report on the aftermath of the largest fire in Channel Islands National Park history, which burned nearly one-third of Santa Rosa Island off California’s coast. The 18,379-acre blaze has been fully contained, but officials say recovery efforts could take years. Fire burned 18,379 acres, covering about one-third of Santa Rosa Island located […]
Hawaiian Electric Issues Wildfire Prep Guidelines as Dry Season Begins
Hawaiian Electric is urging residents statewide to prepare for wildfire season as the islands enter the dry season with potentially less rainfall ahead. Multiple news outlets reported on the utility company’s safety recommendations and ongoing infrastructure improvements to reduce wildfire risks. HECO recommends clearing dry vegetation around homes, trimming tree branches away from power lines, […]
Three-Day Lahaina Homecoming Event Set for July to Support Fire Recovery
A three-day community gathering called Lahaina Homecoming will take place July 17-19 along Front Street in Lahaina to celebrate culture and support ongoing recovery efforts. Multiple sources report the event will feature cultural programming, storytelling, and opportunities for local vendors as the community continues rebuilding from the 2023 wildfire. Event will run July 17-19, 2026 […]
Piiholo Road Closed Both Directions Due to Vehicle Accident
Maui County officials have issued multiple alerts regarding a road closure on Piiholo Road caused by a motor vehicle accident. The closure area was later expanded according to updated reports. Piiholo Road is closed in both directions due to a motor vehicle accident Initial closure was between 1500 and 1505 Piiholo Road Updated closure extends […]
Hana Highway Reopens After Armed Robbery Investigation; Suspect Still at Large
Multiple sources reported on an armed robbery and vehicle theft that temporarily closed Hana Highway on Wednesday morning. The road has since reopened, but the suspect remains at large following an extensive search operation. Armed robbery occurred around 5:27 a.m. on Hana Highway near Ho’okipa Beach area Ha’iku couple aged 46 and 53 were confronted […]
Ocean Water Quality Near Lahaina Shows Minimal Fire Damage After 3 Years
Marine scientists found West Maui coastal waters were not significantly impacted by toxic debris from the 2023 Lahaina wildfire, contrary to initial concerns. A decade of water quality monitoring shows broader challenges with turbidity and nitrates but little fire-related decline. Volunteer scientists collected 5,500+ data points over 10 years, creating comprehensive pre- and post-fire water […]