Heavy Rains Expected to Increase Maui Wildfire Risk as Vegetation Dries
Recent heavy rainfall across Hawaii has sparked vegetation growth that officials warn will become fire fuel when it dries out during expected drier fall conditions. Wildfire prevention efforts have expanded statewide since the 2023 Maui fires. Recent Kona Low rains triggered vegetation growth that will increase fire risk when it dries out this fall. Hawaii […]
Federal Disaster Aid Approval Rates Vary by State Politics, Affecting Recovery
Federal disaster aid approval rates show sharp political disparities, with 89% of Republican-led state requests approved versus 23% for Democratic-led states. The inconsistent system delays housing recovery and rebuilding efforts nationwide. Disaster aid approval rates vary dramatically between Republican-led states (89%) and Democratic-led states (23%) under current administration. Federal disaster aid decisions rely on political […]
Invasive Fire Ant Detections Spike on Maui, Threatening Tourism and Property
Multiple news sources report that Maui is facing a critical surge in invasive fire ant detections after years of successful control efforts. Officials warn the island may be at a tipping point, with new site discoveries quadrupling in 2024 and the pests now threatening tourism, agriculture, and residential areas. Fire ant detections jumped from an […]
Hawaii Officials Warn of Above-Normal Hurricane Season with 5-13 Storms Expected
State and federal officials announced an above-normal 2026 hurricane season forecast for Hawaii, with 5-13 tropical cyclones predicted for the central Pacific basin. Multiple sources reported on the preparedness briefing where Governor Green proclaimed May as Hurricane Awareness and Preparedness Month. NOAA forecasts 70% chance of above-normal hurricane season with 5-13 tropical cyclones in central […]
Emergency Water Repairs to Affect 20 Haiku Properties for 3 Hours
Maui County will shut off water service to 20 residences on Kahiapo Place in Haiku for approximately 3 hours starting at 9:10 a.m. on May 22 for emergency repairs. Water outage affects Kahiapo Place area in Haiku, Upcountry Maui starting 9:10 a.m. May 22. Service interruption expected to last approximately 3 hours for emergency repairs. […]
FEMA Awards Over $191K to Hawaii for COVID-19 Emergency Response Costs
FEMA approved $1.3 million in disaster recovery funding across multiple jurisdictions, including over $191,000 to Hawaii Emergency Management Agency for COVID-19 prevention costs. Hawaii Emergency Management Agency received more than $191,000 for costs related to preventing COVID-19 spread. The funding comes through FEMA’s Public Assistance program for post-disaster infrastructure and public safety projects. Additional awards […]
Kula Hospital Remains Closed After March Flood Damage, Patients Relocated
Kula Hospital has been closed since March flooding damaged the facility, forcing relocation of 105 long-term care patients to other Maui facilities or Oahu. The hospital’s future remains uncertain as safety concerns prevent reopening. March storms brought 50 inches of rain causing significant water damage to the five-story Kula Hospital building. All 105 long-term care […]
Travel Blog Highlights Red Sand Beach Near Hana Despite Local Concerns
A travel blog promotes Kaihalulu Bay (Red Sand Beach) near Hana as a must-visit destination, acknowledging local opposition to tourist visits but providing detailed access information anyway. The article describes Red Sand Beach as Maui’s most stunning beach with unique red sand and turquoise water in a natural cove. The author acknowledges local concerns about […]
June 3 Lahaina Recovery Meeting to Cover Infrastructure Projects
The County will hold its monthly Lahaina community meeting on June 3 to discuss restoration projects, water infrastructure, and recovery programs. Multiple agencies will provide individual assistance at resource tables after the meeting. Meeting covers Royal Complex restoration, DOT projects, and the upcoming Lahaina Watermain Project. County Office of Recovery will provide updates on Hoʻokumu […]
Power Shutoffs May Hit West Maui Due to Wildfire Risk Conditions
Hawaiian Electric is considering proactive power shutoffs in parts of West Maui and other areas due to high winds and dry conditions that increase wildfire risk. Multiple news outlets reported on the utility’s 24-48 hour monitoring period and emergency preparations. Hawaiian Electric may implement Public Safety Power Shutoffs in West Maui and parts of Ōmaʻopio […]