Monk Seal Harassment Suspect Claims Misunderstanding, Faces Federal Court
The visitor who threw a rock at an endangered monk seal on Maui claims he was trying to protect sea turtles and didn’t know about Hawaii’s monk seals. He faces federal charges and a court appearance on May 27. Igor Lytvynchuk’s attorney says his client thought he was protecting sea turtles from an aggressive seal. […]
Documentary on Maui Off-Grid Architecture Released on YouTube
A 13-minute documentary featuring architect David Sellers and sustainable building practices on Maui has been released on YouTube. The film explores off-grid living and climate-resilient construction following the Lahaina wildfire. The documentary ‘Journey Beyond the Grid’ follows Maui-based architect David Sellers who specializes in off-grid, sustainable design. The film was shot entirely on Maui and […]
Wildfire Settlement Payouts Begin This Year But Won’t Fully Cover Losses
Maui fire survivors will receive their first settlement payments in 2026, with $550 million distributed this year from the $4 billion settlement. Economists warn the payments won’t fully compensate families for their losses, especially with rising costs. Settlement payments will boost Maui County personal income by 5.4% in 2026, the largest gain of any county. […]
Wildfire Survivors Face Ongoing Mental Health Crisis Three Years Later
Mental health challenges persist for Maui wildfire survivors nearly three years after the disaster, with economic instability and housing issues worsening psychological recovery. Provider shortages and recent storms have further complicated healing efforts. Mental health professionals report survivors still experiencing trauma, grief, and instability nearly three years after the August 2023 fires. Economic stress from […]
Maui Resident Loses $600 to Storm Repair Scammer, Others Warned
A Kihei woman was conned out of $600 by a fraudulent contractor who advertised storm repair services on Nextdoor then disappeared. Local nonprofits report similar scams are common and urge residents to only work with trusted organizations. A 67-year-old Kihei resident paid $600 upfront to a contractor she found on Nextdoor who then vanished without […]
Heavy Rain and Flooding Risk Expected on Maui Through Weekend
Strong trade winds are bringing heavy rain and potential flooding to Maui through the weekend, with conditions expected to improve by Sunday evening. Flood Watch in effect for Maui County with risk of rapid flooding from heavy downpours. Unstable weather system could produce thunderstorms through Saturday. Small Craft Advisory issued for Maui waters through early […]
Heavy Rain System Brings Flood Watches to Maui and Most Hawaiian Islands
Multiple news sources report that an upper-level low pressure system has triggered flood watches across most Hawaiian islands through Saturday morning. The National Weather Service issued warnings as heavy rain and thunderstorms moved across the island chain, with Oahu experiencing the most severe impacts including road closures and flash flooding. Flood watches issued for Maui, […]
Hawaii’s Economic Outlook Deteriorates as Global Oil Prices Impact Tourism
Multiple news sources report on a University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization forecast showing Hawaii’s economy facing new challenges from rising oil prices linked to U.S.-Iran conflict and ongoing storm recovery. The report indicates tourism growth will slow significantly while costs increase across sectors. UHERO’s second quarter 2026 forecast shows Hawaii’s near-term economic outlook has […]
New Hawaii Law Restricts Corporate Political Spending Starting July 2027
Hawaii enacted legislation prohibiting corporations and LLCs from spending money on elections or ballot measures. The law takes effect July 1, 2027 and applies to all business entities organized under state law. Act 011 bans corporations, LLCs, partnerships and other business entities from spending on elections or ballot issues. The law applies to all entities […]
Maui County Honored with National Disaster Resilience Award for Wildfire Response
The University of Hawaii’s National Disaster Preparedness Training Center awarded Maui County its 2026 Community Resilience Leadership Award for recovery efforts following the 2023 wildfires. This marks the first time the award has been given to an entire county government. Maui County received the first-ever county-wide Community Resilience Leadership Award from the National Disaster Preparedness […]