Hawaiian Electric Issues Wildfire Warning, Upgrades Grid Infrastructure
Hawaiian Electric is warning of wildfire conditions in coming months and implementing system upgrades including pole replacements and fire detection cameras. The utility urges property owners to prepare their homes and create emergency plans. Hawaiian Electric expects increased wildfire risk due to potentially lower rainfall in upcoming months. The utility has installed 144 AI-assisted fire […]
Three-Day Lahaina Community Event Set for July to Support Recovery Efforts
A three-day cultural gathering will take place July 17-19 on Front Street in Lahaina to celebrate community recovery and provide opportunities for local vendors and businesses. The county-organized event prioritizes Lahaina-based businesses and wildfire-impacted entrepreneurs. Event runs July 17-19 on Front Street from Prison to Dickinson Street with four separate gatherings planned. Vendor applications are […]
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 […]
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, […]
Fire Safety Guide Highlights Wind-Driven Fire Risks Using Maui Example
A fire preparedness guide explains how wind-driven fires spread faster and cause more damage, citing the 2023 Lahaina fire as a key example of devastating community impact. Wind-driven fires spread faster than traditional wildfires because winds carry embers further and provide extra oxygen to fuel flames. The 2023 Lahaina fire had wind gusts up to […]
Iao Valley’s Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens Reopens Following March Storm Damage
Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens at Iao Valley has reopened after repairs from March storm damage, though two picnic pavilions remain closed. Visitors are advised to use caution due to ongoing hazards. The county park reopened Saturday after severe damage from back-to-back Kona low storms in March. Picnic Pavilions 1 and 2 remain closed as repair work […]
Hawaiian Electric Pays $100M in Wildfire Settlement for Risk Failures
A federal judge approved a $100 million settlement against Hawaiian Electric for allegedly failing to prepare for wildfire risks before the August 2023 Lahaina fire. The funds will help the company address ongoing wildfire-related obligations and legal costs. Hawaiian Electric’s insurers will pay $100 million to the company following shareholder claims that executives failed to […]
Judge Cuts Attorney Fees for Wildfire Settlement, More Money for Victims
Multiple news sources report that Maui Circuit Judge Peter Cahill dramatically reduced attorney fees in the $4.03 billion wildfire settlement to $222 million, far less than the $1 billion lawyers sought. The ruling means more of the settlement money will go directly to survivors of the 2023 Lahaina fire. Judge Peter Cahill capped attorney fees […]
Fire-Resistant Roofing Company Reports Structure Survived Lahaina Fire
Multiple sources report that Endureed, a synthetic thatch roofing manufacturer, documented that one of its commercial roof installations survived the 2023 Lahaina wildfire. The company has announced it is expanding its fire-rated roofing products to residential customers following the findings. One structure with an Endureed engineered thatch roof survived the Lahaina wildfire along Front Street, […]
Maui County Opens $850K Makahiki Grant Program for Cultural Events
Maui County is accepting applications through July 10 for $850,000 in grants to fund Makahiki season cultural programs, festivals, and community events. The program aims to celebrate Hawaiian traditions while supporting local businesses and creating opportunities for residents and visitors. Applications are open until July 10, 2026 for grants supporting Makahiki season programs and events. […]