Maui County is currently facing significant challenges as a result of a powerful Kona storm sweeping across the region. This severe weather has led to extensive flooding, road closures, and infrastructure damage. Molokai and Lanai are also experiencing impacts from the storm.
According to the National Weather Service, some areas have recorded over 20 inches of rainfall, with Kula and Kaunakakai enduring wind gusts exceeding 70 mph. Severe weather conditions are expected to persist through Sunday.
Lahaina Evacuation Warning and Impacted Areas
Maui Civil Defense Administrator Kono Davis reported that heavy rainfall has disrupted essential roadways throughout Maui County. Critical infrastructure has been impacted, with many roads obstructed or inundated. Emergency crews have conducted multiple rescue operations due to rising floodwaters, particularly in South Maui.
- Dozens of residents in Hana were stranded due to road washouts.
- Maui Emergency Management and local police are advising residents and visitors to avoid travel unless necessary.
Transportation and Safety Responses
The Maui Department of Transportation has suspended bus services until further notice due to hazardous road conditions. Early shutdowns of operations were enacted to ensure passenger safety.
More than 100 residents are currently utilizing shelters across Maui County, which provide essential services such as cots, food, and water. These shelters are managed by both the Maui Emergency Management (MEMA) and the American Red Cross. Residents are encouraged to bring personal bedding, essential supplies, and medications. Pets are allowed if contained in crates.
Shelter Locations
- Lanai: Lanai High & Elementary School Gym, 555 Fraser Ave., Lanai City
- East Maui: Hana High School Cafeteria, 4111 Hana Highway, Hana
- Central Maui: Maui High School Gym, 660 Lono Ave., Kahului
- Molokai: Kaunakakai Gym, 180 Ala Malama Ave., Kaunakakai
- West Maui: Lahaina Civic Center, 1840 Honoapiilani Highway, Lahaina
- South Maui: South Maui Community Park Gym, 1501 Liloa Drive, Kihei
Community Safety and Emergency Action
Officials have strongly advised against driving through flooded areas, citing road hazards like debris and swift currents. Key routes such as Hana Highway into East Maui are blocked, while closures also include South Kihei Road and North Kihei Road. Haleakala National Park has also been closed for safety reasons.
Maui’s Department of Water Supply has urged residents to conserve water due to potential disruptions in service. Mayor Richard Bissen has signed an emergency proclamation to enable access to state and federal resources and facilitate resource deployment.
For updates on road closures, the public can visit mauicounty.gov/roadclosures or download the Genasys Protect app. Emergency management officials continue to prioritize restoring access for emergency services across the impacted areas.
