Showing posts with label flooding. Show all posts
Showing posts with label flooding. Show all posts

Thursday, September 13, 2018

Islands still getting drenched by Olivia remnants, super PACs gear up for education tax fight, Honolulu City Council kills bus fare hike, ethics board punts honesty bill, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Department of Transportation
Flooded Maui road PC: Hawaii Department of Transportation
Olivia made a rare double landfall over west Maui and Lanai as a tropical storm on Wednesday, triggering torrential rains and significant flooding in some areas. That brought down trees, closed roads and knocked out power to thousands. Hawaii News Now.

Isles appear to dodge major damage from Olivia. Tropical Storm Olivia blew through the Hawaiian Islands Wednesday but not before leaving a soggy trail of fallen trees, swollen streams, landslides and power outages.  Star-Advertiser.

Trump signs disaster declaration for Hawaii as weakened Olivia dumps rain on Islands. Pacific Business News.

Gov. David Ige’s request for a Presidential Disaster Declaration for Tropical Storm Olivia has been granted, one day after the request was submitted. Maui Now.

Here are all the active weather alerts associated with Olivia. Hawaii News Now.

Maui County under flash flood warning; flash flood watch remains in effect for state. Star-Advertiser.

Things are slowly returning to normal now that Tropical Storm Olivia is moving away from the state. Hawaii News Now.

All public schools open Thursday except Kilohana Elementary on Molokai. KHON2.

The U.S. Postal Service announced that all Post Offices across the state will be open and mail will be delivered, weather and local conditions permitting, on Thursday, Sept 13. KITV.

Tropical Storm Olivia dropped almost 8 inches of rain on a part of Maui and lashed the Lanai airport with 51 mph wind gusts Wednesday, while the Big Island dodged a bullet. Tribune-Herald.

As Maui County weathered winds that wrenched trees from the ground and rains that raised the rivers Wednesday afternoon, people on Kauai watched the skies. Garden Island.

It’s shaping up to be an unpredictable hurricane season in Hawaii, with cyclones approaching from multiple directions — and there’s still six weeks left until it comes to a close on Nov. 30. Star-Advertiser.

Shelters offer storm cover for the few who turned up. There were a total of 75 people across 15 evacuation centers on Oahu, Hawaii island and Maui County as of Wednesday morning, according to the Red Cross. Star-Advertiser.

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Political action committees that can raise unlimited funds already have formed to try to persuade voters in the debate over whether to amend the Hawaii Constitution in November to allow the state to tax investment property to help fund public education. Star-Advertiser.

More than 80 candidates running for elected office this year have been fined by the Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission for violating campaign laws. Star-Advertiser.

Bigger Fines Considered To Send Campaign Lawbreakers A Message. Candidates and political organizations may have to start paying more for filing their spending reports late or inaccurately. Civil Beat.

‘Fragile Aloha’: Why Hawaii’s Last Constitutional Convention Was Important. Delegates quickly broke into factions in 1978, but they ultimately made breakthroughs on Native Hawaiian issues. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Council rejects proposed bus, van hikes. Honolulu City Council members Wednesday shot down a plan by Mayor Kirk Caldwell to raise TheBus and TheHandi-Van fares starting Jan. 1. Star-Advertiser.

A bill to dramatically increase the fines against those who flout city building codes won final approval from the Honolulu City Council Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Ethics Board punts on honesty policy. Honesty may be said to be the best policy, but it’s not a policy the County Council, or the Board of Ethics, seems eager to see set in law. West Hawaii Today.

On Tuesday, the Hawaii County Board of Ethics reviewed a County Council bill that would require local government to be “accurate and factual.” Big Island Video News.

An autopsy on a 51-year-old tour guide who collapsed and died while leading a lava tour hike near Kalapana on Feb. 1 found the man’s death was accidental. The report found the immediate cause of death for Sean King was “thermal injuries and volcanic fume exposure.” Tribune-Herald.

Maui

'We're very, very fortunate.' Maui's mayor optimistic despite damage from Olivia. While much of the rain from Olivia has moved off, the focus now is dealing with the damage left behind. KHON2.

VIDEO: Homes, cars swept away in Honokohau Valley flood. Maui News.

Tropical Storm Olivia made history Wednesday as the first such storm to make landfall on Maui in modern times. Thankfully for residents and visitors on the Valley Isle, it was a brief and not particularly hard landing. Star-Advertiser.

Heavy rains and strong winds from Tropical Storm Olivia pummeled Maui County on Wednesday, washing away homes, bringing down trees and utility poles, and triggering widespread power outages. Hawaii News Now.

Olivia Maui Photos: Historic Landfall Made on Maui and Lanai. Maui Now.

Despite concerns about water, wildfires and access to the Lahaina Pali Trail, the Maui Planning Commission gave a nod Tuesday to advance a 21-lot Maalaea agricultural subdivision. Maui News.

Kauai

Kalalau Trail closure redirects visitors elsewhere on Kauai. With Kee Beach and the Kalalau Trail closed, there are a few thousand tourists every day looking for somewhere else to go. Garden Island.

Tuesday, September 11, 2018

Tropical Storm Olivia weakens, set to bisect island chain, Marriott hotel workers on Honolulu and Maui vote to strike, Kawananakoa loses control of $215M fortune, Waikiki beachboys lose lawsuit, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

NOAA
Tropical Storm Olivia 5 a.m. Tuesday
Olivia has begun a gradual weakening trend, but it is still forecast to move over the islands as a tropical storm as early as Tuesday night, meaning it could bring potentially damaging impacts to parts of the state. Hawaii News Now.

Tropical Storm Olivia weakens slightly as it closes in on Hawaii. Located about 355 miles east-northeast of Kahului and 440 miles east of Honolulu, Olivia clocked in with maximum sustained winds of 65 mph and was headed west at 10 mph at 5 a.m. today, according to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gears Up — Again — For Olivia. After the islands were mostly spared from Hurricane Lane’s wrath, leaders aim to keep residents on guard against a tropical storm. Civil Beat.

What's closing or canceled as Olivia targets island chain. Hawaii News Now.

Hurricane Olivia weakened to a tropical storm Monday as it advanced toward the Hawaiian islands but that didn’t stop the state’s visitor industry from unleashing a whirlwind of safety preparations. Star-Advertiser.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency says that although they are stretched thin, they are ready to respond to all natural disasters. FEMA has been busy with multiple hurricanes threatening the United States, however agency officials got a head start since they were already activated in Hawaii for the past two disasters. KITV.

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Abigail Kawananakoa’s bid to regain control of her $215 million trust was blocked in court Monday by a judge who concluded the woman’s mental capacity is impaired due to the stroke she suffered last year. Star-Advertiser.

Judge Appoints New Trustee For Kawananakoa Fortune. The judge ruled Abigail Kawananakoa can make simple decisions but not complex ones such as altering her 2001 trust. Civil Beat.

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Future of Health Care in the Pacific Uncertain As End to Compact Funding Nears. U.S. economic assistance under the Compact of Free Association is set to expire in five years – dealing quite a blow to the health care systems in three Pacific Island nations. Hawaii Public Radio.

Why Brett Kavanaugh Scares Native Rights Advocates. Hawaii Sen. Mazie Hirono is just one of those who worries the Supreme Court nominee could upend hard-fought policy and funding gains. Civil Beat.

‘We Don’t Give Up’: Identifying America’s Long-Lost Soldiers. The POW/MIA forensic lab in Hawaii has more than 1,400 service members who have been missing in action, some for decades. Civil Beat.

Unite Here Local 5 hotel workers voted Monday to authorize a strike at six Marriott-operated hotels in Honolulu and on Maui. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii hotel workers vote to authorize strike on Marriott. UNITE HERE Local 5 hotel workers from six Marriott-operated hotels in Honolulu and Maui have voted to authorize a strike with a 95% yes vote. KHON2.

The votes are in and hotel workers have authorized a strike, these hotel workers work at six Marriott-operated hotels in Honolulu and Maui. KITV.

Thousands Poised To Strike At Some Of Waikiki’s Biggest Hotels. The union vote could lead to a work stoppage by about 3,500 workers, including those at the Royal Hawaiian, Westin Moana Surfrider and Sheraton Waikiki. Civil Beat.

Oahu

World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument to close Tuesday. Due to the tropical storm warning now in effect for Oahu, World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument will close the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 11, to allow staff time to prepare for heavy winds and rain. KHON2.

East Oahu residents worried about streams after April historic flooding. County crews are clearing out streams and ditches ahead of Olivia, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Fishermen feel vacating the ports ahead of a tropical storm could be dangerous. On Monday night, ports in Hawaii and Maui counties were expected to go into what's called condition "Zulu," meaning sustained gale force winds are expected within 12 hours. Hawaii News Now.

Broken pipe causes cloudy, murky waters in Waikiki. The Department of Health is investigating a water main break at the Hale Koa Hotel. Hawaii News Now.

First Circuit Judge Dean E. Ochiai ruled this morning to dismiss the last remaining motions in Star Beachboys court proceedings against the city and Dive Oahu, the city’s current operator of the Waikiki beachboy concessions. Star-Advertiser.

Lawsuit alleges former Hawaii priest molested children. The lawsuit against the Diocese of Honolulu and Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers was filed today on behalf of a man who says a priest, James Jackson, abused him when he was a child in the 1980s. Associated Press.

Hawaii Island

State and county officials advised residents to have 14 days worth of food and pet food, a full tank of gas and other emergency supplies ready as Tropical Storm Olivia is set to arrive either late tonight or early Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

Volcano House and Kilauea Military Camp work to reopen. Two attractions in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park are expected to be reopened to the public the same day the national park returns to service later this month. Tribune-Herald.

Leilani Estates returnees assess lava damage. Star-Advertiser.

Volcanic emissions down, West Hawaii skies clearest in years. West Hawaii Today.

Students on Monday blessed with ti leaf and salt water the four corners of the site of a new creative arts, science and technology building at Waikoloa Elementary and Middle School in South Kohala. West Hawaii Today.

Alleged threat briefly puts schools in lockdown. A suspect is in police custody after allegedly threatening gun violence Monday morning at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Algae biofuel company to launch commercial work. A company that set out 11 years ago to test whether it could make fuel oil from algae in Hawaii announced Friday that it is ceasing research work after succeeding, and will try to build a commercial production plant in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

As Maui braces for the impacts associated with Tropical Storm Olivia, Maui Now is keeping track of what’s open and closed with an ongoing list of closures, cancellations and notices. Maui Now.

Still scarred from Lane, Upcountry Maui braces for Tropical Storm Olivia. Maui County is staging resources island-wide, but both residents and emergency officials are keeping a close eye on areas still recovering from hurricane-turned-tropical-storm Lane. KHON2.

Haleakala National Park to close ahead of Olivia. The National Park Service is closing Haleakala National Park ahead of Tropical Storm Olivia. KHON2.

Ag program for keiki gets growing. Goals is to nurture a new crop of farmers by sowing seeds early. Maui News.

Ledcor resort project on Maui more than half sold out. The Luana Garden Villas, Ledcor Group’s townhome project on 10 acres in the Honua Kai Resort & Spa on Maui, has sold out more than half of its 72 units since launching sales earlier this year. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

The County of Kauai will hold an open house and presentation on Wednesday to provide an update on the Lihue Town Core Mobility and Revitalization project. Garden Island.

Immediate water conservation notice issued for Haena. he Department of Water issued an immediate water conservation notice at 6:25 p.m. Monday for all Haena customers until further notice, due to the recent damage to the hydrant and system in the area that has affected water tank levels. Garden Island.

A disaster response team is planning a one-day rebuild on the North Shore. Garden Island.

Friday, August 24, 2018

Photos, videos, news: All the latest on Hurricane Lane from media sources all across the state. Be prepared, stay safe!


Although Lane has been downgraded to a Category 2 hurricane, it still remains an extremely dangerous storm headed north toward Oahu. Packing maximum sustained winds of 110 mph and located about 180 miles south of Honolulu and 145 miles west-southwest of Kailua-Kona, Lane was headed north at 5 mph at 5 a.m. today, according to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Star-Advertiser.

Over 1,500 residents move to emergency shelters as Hurricane Lane triggers rains, flooding. Hawaii News Now.

Hurricane Lane is weakening as it continues its slow march toward the island chain, but forecasters warn the cyclone is expected to remain a hurricane as it moves over or comes "dangerously close" to portions of the state through Friday. Hawaii News Now.

Hurricane Lane weakens to category 2 as it continues to move north towards the state. KHON2.

Hurricane Lane weakens to Category 3 storm, rains still a concern. KITV.

LIST: Hurricane Lane impacts roads across the state. Hawaii News Now.

LIST: Active power outages reported across the state. Hawaii News Now.

Hurricane Lane: Live Updates. Civil Beat.

FEMA already on the ground with food, water and supplies. Brock Long, administrator for the Federal Emergency Management Agency, said Thursday that his agency has made a lot of changes in the way it is responding to Hurricane Lane based on the lessons learned in Puerto Rico last year. Star-Advertiser.

State emergency officials have activated a disaster medical response team in anticipation of severe weather throughout the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Hospitals, Clinics Prepare to Provide Care During Storm. Hawaii Public Radio.

More than 800 people evacuate from hurricane. Star-Advertiser.

Drivers race for fuel as supply dwindles. Around 100 or more gas stations were closed Thursday largely for safety precautions ahead of harmful weather from Hurricane Lane that began to hit Hawaii island Thursday and is expected next for Maui County and then Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

What’s closed, postponed or rescheduled in Hawaii in anticipation of Hurricane Lane. Star-Advertiser.

Visitor industry prepares to hunker down. As Hurricane Lane, Hawaii’s most unwelcome guest, prepared to unpack dangerous wind and flooding across the state, the visitor industry scrambled to get hospitality workers to their jobs and get some 270,000 tourists back home or safe inside. Star-Advertiser.

Despite closure of Hawaii ports, supplies are waiting, ready to be delivered. Hawaii News Now.

State economists are forecasting that Hawaii will grow this year at a slower pace than projected. The economy is now expected to expand 1.5 percent in 2018, according to the latest quarterly report released Wednesday by the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. The previous forecast was for 1.9 percent growth. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Lane’s turn west not assured, so next 24 hours will be crucial for Oahu, meteorologist says. Star-Advertiser.

HECO responding to multiple power outages throughout Oahu. KHON2.

A call center has been set up for Oahu residents with questions or concerns ahead of Lane's strongest impacts. Hawaii News Now.

Fear The Hurricane? Not These Hardy Tourists. “We’re the hurricane that hit Honolulu,” says one visitor who arrived in Honolulu with a large extended family. Civil Beat.

As Hurricane Lane approaches Oahu, there are no safeguards in place if the Ala Wai Canal tops its banks and causes major flooding in Waikiki and the surrounding areas. Star-Advertiser.

Many Homeless People Are Choosing To Ride Out The Storm. Outreach workers ramped up efforts to alert the homeless about Hurricane Lane, but some opted to stay in encampments. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

The hurricane warning for Hawaii island was downgraded to a tropical storm warning late Thursday afternoon, but the torrential rain that soaked the windward side this week are expected to continue and might even drench portions of the island through the weekend. Star-Advertiser.

VIDEO: Hurricane Lane – Flash Flood Dangers Continue For Hawaii. Big Island Video News.

Tropical storm conditions and hurricane conditions continue to be a possibility today and tonight as Hurricane Lane churns its way toward the islands. The category 3 storm is expected to pass close to the main islands today, still as a hurricane, bringing damaging winds, according to the National Weather Service. West Hawaii Today.

Civil defense administrator Talmadge Magno gave a rundown on impacts - thus far - from Hurricane Lane, churning to the south southwest of the Big Island. Big Island Video News.

Deluge from Hurricane Lane prompts rescues, road closures. Tribune-Herald.

Seven rescued from Hurricane Lane flooding. Tribune-Herald.

A Windward Drenching, But No Wind Damage Yet. UPDATED: The drenching closes some roads and causes landslides, but strong winds had been reported as of 6:30 p.m. Civil Beat.

Deluge brings water-gawkers out in force. As rain from Hurricane Lane doused the island Thursday, curious onlookers drove over half-flooded streets to watch swollen rivers churn into the ocean despite repeated warnings from county officials to stay off the roads. Tribune-Herald.

Wave riders take advantage of rare opportunity in West Hawaii waters. The National Weather Service office in Honolulu said surf on the island’s west side topped out at roughly 6 feet, based on reports. West Hawaii Today.

Heavy rain from Hurricane Lane caused a wastewater pond at Big Island Dairy to overflow Thursday, sending untreated effluent into a nearby gulch. Jake Mecham, dairy business manager, said the farm, located mauka of Ookala village, received nearly 25 inches of rain in 24 hours. Tribune-Herald.


Maui

As Hurricane Lane continued its agonizingly slow approach toward Hawaii, an untold number of Maui visitors scrambled Thursday to deal with storm-related impacts that included canceled flights and closed parks, beaches, shops and restaurants. Star-Advertiser.

Lahaina brush fire forces relocation of storm shelter, prompts evacuations. Hawaii News Now.

Brush fire on Maui forces evacuation of Lahaina emergency shelter, residents. Star-Advertiser.

Maui Electric Power Outage Updates: 1,990 Lose Power Upcountry. Maui Now.

Stormy weather stalls affordable housing project. Maui News.

Kauai

Waiting for the storm. It was a quiet Thursday around the island as traffic was light and most residents stayed home and visitors stayed in hotels. Garden Island.

When many visitors on Kauai heard Hurricane Lane was barreling their way, they decided to stick it out rather than flee for home. Garden Island.

Red Cross rises to the challenge. After a 12-hour flight from Ohio and a three-hour layover in Honolulu Wednesday, Jan Dayton deboarded the plane at Lihue Airport and headed straight for the Red Cross shelter at Church of the Pacific in Princeville. Garden Island.

Due to Hurricane Lane, cargo flights between Oahu and Kauai have been grounded Thursday and Friday night. Because The Garden Island is printed at Oahu Publications Inc.’s press in Kapolei and delivered to Kauai on those cargo flights, it means TGI’s Friday and Saturday newspapers will not be delivered to homes or available at news stands. Garden Island.

Thursday, August 23, 2018

Cat 4 Hurricane Lane about 200 miles from Hawaiian Islands, Trump issues presidential disaster declaration, emergency shelters open, FEMA arrives, seaports close, here's what you need to know to stay safe

Central Pacific Hurricane Center
Hurricane Lane track 5 a.m. Thursday Central Pacific Hurricane Center
Hurricane Lane continued to weaken slightly overnight but is still moving closer to the islands. Clocking in with maximum sustained winds of 130 mph and moving northwest at 7 mph, Lane was located about 210 miles south-southwest of Kailua-Kona and 305 miles south of Honolulu at 5 a.m., according to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Star-Advertiser.

Heavy rains pound Big Island as Cat 4 Lane barrels toward Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Trump issues presidential disaster declaration as Lane marches toward Hawaii. Hawaii leaders are ramping up preparations for Hurricane Lane as the ferocious Category 4 storm continues to march toward the island chain. Hawaii News Now.

Islands remain vulnerable as category 4 Hurricane Lane continues to move northwest. KITV.

Hurricane Closes Hawaii’s Harbors, Freezing A Fragile Supply Chain. If Hurricane Lane strikes Oahu, officials say they have a plan in place to clear roads for emergency access as soon possible. Civil Beat.

Depending on hurricane track and scope of damage, Hawaiian Electric says customers should anticipate power outages from Hurricane Lane. KHON2.

Unplugged. That will likely become reality for many in Hawaii as Hurricane Lane triggers power outages, the Hawaiian Electric companies warned Wednesday as they urged customers to prepare. Star-Advertiser.

Power outage tips: Keep your refrigerator closed, unplug other appliances. Hawaii News Now.

FEMA workers arrive in Hawaii; airports remain open. About 150 FEMA workers are spread out across the state to help out with Hurricane Lane. Hawaii News Now.

Here’s a list of Hurricane Lane emergency shelters. Star-Advertiser.

Forecasting Hurricanes In The ‘Cone Of Uncertainty’ Is A Rough Challenge. Meteorologists get plenty of data to predict a storm’s path, but even minor fluctuations in models can mean a world of difference. Civil Beat.

Category strengths of a hurricane and wind shear ... How do they relate? Hawaii News Now.

Hurricane Lane impacts U.S. Postal Service operations, mail delivery. KHON2.

State investigating reports of price gouging as Hurricane Lane nears. KHON2.

Insurance commissioner authorizes assistance of unlicensed adjusters due to Hurricane Lane. Pacific Business News.

Real estate contributes to Hawaii's empty shelves as hurricane approaches. The empty supermarket shelves Hawaii residents are finding this week as they try to prepare for Hurricane Lane are a byproduct of the cost of shipping and industrial real estate in the Islands. Pacific Business News.

Storm likely to further curb September hotel performance. Star-Advertiser.

Ige Relaxes Rabies Rules for Hawaii-Bound Pets. Owners will be allowed to bring their dogs and cats to the islands 30 days after completing tests and vaccines, instead of 120 days. Civil Beat.

State's Plans To Deal With Abandoned and Derelict Cars. The problem of abandoned and derelict vehicle varies from island to island. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Mayor says slow-moving storm could cause major problems. Mayor Kirk Caldwell, flanked by first responders, urged Oahu residents to prepare for the coming of Hurricane Lane and to shelter in place. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Designates 20 Schools As Hurricane Shelters. The shelters — to be used as a last resort — have a total capacity of 55,000, according to city officials. Civil Beat.

Pearl Harbor ships and subs head to sea ahead of Lane. Navy ships and submarines based in Hawaii — excluding those undergoing maintenance — began an exodus from Pearl Harbor Wednesday as Hurricane Lane, still packing 145 mph winds, swirled ever closer to the state. Star-Advertiser.

Last-minute shopping a challenge. Don Quijote was one of the stores that had sold out of water, butane and flashlights, but were expecting an emergency shipment Wednesday night of additional pallets of water and butane. Star-Advertiser.

Visitors to Oahu brace for Hurricane Lane, tourism impacted. Gusts of wind blew through Daniel K. Inouye International Airport Wednesday as travelers braced for the unknown. KHON2.

Hundreds of residents on Hawaiian Homelands are without phone and internet service as Hurricane Lane threatens the state. KHON2.

Honolulu police officers, state officials and outreach workers canvassed various communities on Wednesday to warn Oahu’s homeless population about Hurricane Lane and urge them to seek shelter. Hawaii News Now.

Art Ushijima, president and CEO of The Queen’s Health Systems, said Wednesday he will retire in January 2020 after nearly 30 years on the job. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Bracing for Lane: County, state prepare as significant rain, flooding and high winds are expected from hurricane. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim stressed Wednesday that West Hawaii residents need to remain vigilant as Hurricane Lane remained on course to pass very close to the Hawaiian Islands. West Hawaii Today.

Storm-tested East Hawaii residents take Lane in stride. Despite the approach of Hurricane Lane, residents on the east side of the Big Island were largely unperturbed Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

No panic in Kailua-Kona as residents prep for hurricane. West Hawaii Today.

Disaster-Weary Big Island Braces For Lane’s First Effects. South- and west-facing coastal areas are considered at greatest risk in Hawaii County. Civil Beat.

Hawaii County won’t even begin collecting its share of the general excise tax for more than four months, but there’s already disagreement over how to spend it. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa hosted a press conference on Wednesday afternoon ahead of Hurricane Lane as it continues its approach up the island chain. Maui Now.

Maui County officials are preparing for the worst that Hurricane Lane might bring — and are bracing for a long recovery. Hawaii News Now.

Maui County residents, tourists and businesses are preparing for Hurricane Lane and the possibility of stores running out of supplies due to the anticipated closure of all ports statewide when the storm hits. Maui News.

Maui visitors deal differently with approaching storm. Star-Advertiser.

Feels Like Hana Of Old After Hurricane Threat Chases Tourists Away. The iconic but usually congested Hana Highway is quiet as confident residents get ready to hunker down. Civil Beat.

C-SPAN bus visits Maui with Lane looming. Mobile TV studio parked at county building, mall. Maui News.

Kauai

In this together. Stores like Times, Costco, The Home Depot and Longs weren’t quite as busy Wednesday, but residents and visitors alike were stocking up on essentials before the possibility of Hurricane Lane wreaking havoc on Kauai. Garden Island.

Wainiha-Haena residents are being advised to evacuate the area today due to the possibility of tropical storm force winds and heavy rains. Garden Island.

Water diversion plan contested. A move to amend the Interim Inflow Stream Standard for the Waikoko and North Fork Wailua streams by State of Hawaii Commission on Water Resources Management Tuesday has been delayed due to a request for a contested-case hearing filed by Kauai Island Utility Cooperative. Garden Island.

Wednesday, May 23, 2018

Blue flames the latest show from Kilauea volcano as National Guard prepares for air evacuations, Pentagon withdraws China's RIMPAC invite, slightly more active hurricane season predicted, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands


Blue flames from burning methane are the latest natural phenomena being seen at the eruption of the Kilauea volcano in Hawaii. Associated Press.

A blue-burning flame of methane gas was observed in the cracks on Kahukai Street during the overnight hours in Puna just before midnight on May 22, 2018. Tribune-Herald.

National Guard prepares for air evacuations if lava cuts off key Puna highway. An air evacuation of the portions of Lower Puna that are threatened by the Kilauea volcano eruption could be accomplished within four hours if that becomes necessary because of damage to ground transportation routes, according to Hawaii Army National Guard commander Brig. Gen. Kenneth Hara. Star-Advertiser.

Number of structures claimed by lava rises to 50 as eruptions continue. Hawaii News Now.

Officials Expect New Lava Flow to Enter Ocean. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kilauea Volcano on the Island of Hawaii, though best known for its frequent quiet eruptions of lava flows, has erupted explosively many times in its history—most recently in 2011. USGS Report.

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The Pentagon on Wednesday withdrew an invitation to China to participate in a major Pacific naval exercise, citing Beijing’s “continued militarization” of the South China Sea, adding another irritant to relations between the two nations as they jostle over trade and North Korea. Tribune News.

Forecasters Predict Central Pacific Could See Up To 6 Hurricanes This Season. Weak El Nino conditions — water warming on the surface of the ocean along the equator — could make the next few months stormier. Associated Press.

Forecasters are calling for normal to above-normal tropical cyclone activity within the Central Pacific this hurricane season. West Hawaii Today.

Hurricane Season in Hawaii officially starts next month and forecasters are expecting above normal activity. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Decision Delayed On Hawaii Legislator’s Alleged Campaign Violations. Rep. Kaniela Ing faces more than $15,000 in fines for 31 counts connected to prior campaigns. Civil Beat.

The state Campaign Spending Commission this morning postponed hearing a complaint against state Rep. Kaniela Ing until next month. Star-Advertiser.

The Center for Biological Diversity petitioned the US Food and Drug Administration today to ban two  chemicals from sunscreens and other personal care products that they say are killing precious coral and damaging reefs. Maui Now.

Oahu

The city plans to erase seven crosswalks along busy South King Street. Hawaii News Now.

Ride-hailing apps face price caps under City Council plan. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Despite Kilauea’s worsening volcanic activity, May visitor arrivals are up 25 percent over last year on Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

The County is once again distributing free masks for ash protection at various locations, today through Friday. Big Island Video News.

No water restriction yet: New deep well starts pumping in North Kona as 4 remain offline. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui Police Department is the first in the state to be equipped and trained to use a nasal spray that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose. Maui News.

A Makena family’s request to continue holding weddings on its property is headed to the Maui County Council after the Maui Planning Commission recommended approval of an after-the-fact permit Tuesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. signed a second emergency proclamation on Wednesday, effectively extending the order prohibiting the operation of vacation rentals in flood-affected areas. Hawaii News Now.

Kahiliholo Road in Kilauea has collapsed after being damaged by Kauai’s April floods, and has created a dam, blocking the waterfall along Kuhio Highway, just before the Kalihiwai River. Garden Island.

The County of Kauai Recycling Office announced a free electronic waste recycling event for residents and businesses set for Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Anaina Hou Community Park behind Kauai Mini Golf in Kilauea. Garden Island.

Friday, May 18, 2018

New fissure spews lava and gas as Kilauea activity continues, Senate bill to improve volcano monitoring, 12k ash masks issued. Plus, congressional candidate to be fined for campaign finance violations, judge rules against Waikiki beachboys, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands


New Fissure Opens In Leilani Estates, Lava Flows Generated. Big Island Video News.

A new lava fissure opened Thursday in Leilani Estates after a day of heavy air pollution in Pahoa and other parts of lower Puna that prompted closures of schools and a post office. Tribune-Herald.

Several fissures still actively spewing lava, emitting dangerous gases. Hawaii News Now.

A total of 21 fissures have appeared since May 3rd in Leilani Estates. The eruption has destroyed at least 25 homes, and lava has covered more than 115 acres of land. Hawaii Public Radio.

Here's where all of the fissures in lower Puna have opened up. Hawaii News Now.

Kilauea Eruption Prompts US Senate Action On Volcano Monitoring. The U.S. Senate passed a bill Thursday to upgrade the nation’s ability to monitor volcanoes and provide early warnings to those living in the shadows of their summits. Civil Beat.

Senate bill would unify all U.S. volcano monitoring activity. U.S. Sen. Mazie K. Hirono announced today that she and fellow U.S. Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) have secured the Senate passage of a bill that improves the nation’s volcano monitoring and early-warning capabilities. Star-Advertiser.

Senate passes bill to upgrade volcano monitoring system. Tribune-Herald.

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In the last six months, the Department of Education opened 59 investigations into worker misconduct. Right now, 55 workers have an open case that's either being investigated or in the decision making process. KHON2.

State Rep. Kaniela Ing, a Democrat running in the 1st Congressional District of Hawaii, faces new allegations of misusing funds donated to his campaigns for the state House, including using campaign money for personal expenses. Hawaii News Now.

The staff of the state Campaign Spending Commission is recommending that state Rep. Kaniela Ing be fined more than $15,000 over an extensive list of violations he is attributing to clerical or bookkeeping mistakes — including misuse of campaign funds, filing false spending reports and exceeding campaign spending limits — going back three election cycles. Star-Advertiser.

Giant mounds of plastic waste wash up on Hawaii's beaches statewide, and it's usually coming from far away. What can be done to tackle this problem? KHON2.

The biggest potential public-schools win during this year’s legislative session is a proposal asking voters whether to establish a surcharge on investment real property to serve as a funding stream for Hawaii’s statewide system. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s unemployment rate has fallen to an all-time low of 2 percent — again. Star-Advertiser.

Trinity Merger Corp., a Hono­lulu-based special-purpose acquisition firm, said it raised $345 million through an initial public offering that closed Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Co. said on Wednesday that Square Inc. executive Kevin Burke has been appointed to its board of directors. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Judge denies TRO in Waikiki beach concession dispute. Losing bidder Star-Beachboys Inc. will have to move out to make room for the winning bidder of the Waikiki beach concession contract. Star-Advertiser.

Judge refuses to protect Waikiki beach boy concessions. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said today he may impose up to $1,000 fines or jail time for the owner or users of Lime electric scooters for illegally parking the rental vehicles on public sidewalks. Star-Advertiser.

The City and County of Honolulu is classifying Lime’s electric scooters as mopeds, and says the company is violating state and city laws by failing to register the vehicles. Pacific Business News.

These Blue Beach Chairs Are Riling The Ala Moana Regulars. When a luxury condo promises to “prepare the perfect beach day” for residents, some locals fear more commercialization of a favorite park. Civil Beat.

Toxic Lot In Maili May Finally Get Cleaned Up. PCBs have been awaiting cleanup for years at a contaminated lot near a residential neighborhood in West Oahu. Civil Beat.

State and city officials urged renters and homeowners who sustained flood damage to their homes in the mid-April deluge to report it by today to their respective county emergency management agencies. Star-Advertiser.

Farm and homeowner, Michael Tsuruda, says the April flood destroyed his irrigation system, 5,000 potted plants and caused $25,000 in damage to his farm. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Alarmingly high levels of volcanic gases early Thursday triggered closure of a half-dozen Puna schools, and authorities began distributing protective face masks in Puna and Kau in the wake of explosive Kilauea Volcano ash eruptions. Star-Advertiser.

More than 12,000 particulate-blocking masks were distributed to Puna and Kau residents in a six-hour span Thursday, thanks to a gift from Scotch Tape maker 3M, with swift help from Hawaii County Civil Defense, the American Red Cross Hawaii chapter, community volunteers and Hawaii’s famous coconut wireless network. Star-Advertiser.

Bigger belch at summit: Residents given masks to protect against ash. Tribune-Herald.

Vog symptoms showing up: Medical providers seeing more patients in recent days. West Hawaii Today.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Pacific Southwest Region has deployed emergency responders and air monitoring equipment as part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s federal response to the Kilauea volcanic eruption on Hawaii Island. Big Island Now.

Progress made in securing Puna Geothermal Plant, but work is 'not done yet'. Hawaii News Now.

Scientists study lava for clues to how volcano will behave. Associated Press.

Lava leaves Leilani Estates looking like a ghost town. New York Times.

New photos show dramatic widening of cracks in lower East Rift Zone. KHON2.

Vog hung heavy in the skies over Kailua-Kona Thursday — a trend likely to continue, based on all relevant data. West Hawaii Today.

It’s Nearly Impossible To Find A Place To Rent These Days. Lava refugees, forced from their homes by the volcano, are squeezing into every available space. Civil Beat.

Maui

A Maui County Council committee recommended approval Wednesday of a bill aimed at more enforcement of bed-and-breakfast operations. Maui News.

A public hearing on the Maui County Council’s proposed fiscal 2019 budget will be held at 9 a.m. Friday in the eighth-floor Council Chambers of the Kalana O Maui Building in Wailuku. Maui News.

The Commission on Water Resource Management, in a public meeting Tuesday, fined the Olowalu Water Company, Inc. of Maui the maximum allowable fine of $1,500 for construction of a concrete dam/spillway on the Olowalu Stream without a permit.  Maui Now.

Commission fines water company for unpermitted structure. Haiku landowner found in violation of water code. Maui News.

Kauai

As of Thursday, the state needs 58 more homeowners from Oahu and Kauai to report flood damage to the Federal Emergency Management Agency in order for the state to receive any money. Garden Island.

Thursday, May 3, 2018

Gov. Ige seeks federal disaster declaration for flooding on Kauai and Oahu as Big Island put on volcano watch, sexual harassment in the Legislature, Roddenberry son building Maui home, new standards for Kakaako roads, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Courtesy governor's office
Ige signs disaster declaration request, Governor's Office photo
Gov. David Ige on Wednesday asked President Donald Trump to declare a major disaster for Hawaii following last month’s flooding and landslides that destroyed — or caused major damage — to more than 115 homes on Kauai and Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Seeks Federal Disaster Assistance For Flood-Ravaged Kauai. The state’s detailed assessment of damage includes destroyed homes and roads, lost tourism dollars and PTSD among residents. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige has asked President Donald Trump to declare a major disaster for the state of Hawaii following severe flooding and landslides on Kauai and Oahu last month. Pacific Business News.

Gov. David Ige has asked President Donald Trump to declare a major disaster for the State of Hawaii as a result of severe flooding and landslides on Kauai and Oahu between April 13 and April 16, 2018. Big Island Now.

Gov. David Ige is asking President Trump to declare a major disaster for Hawaii following last month’s destructive flooding Kauai and Oahu. KHON2.

Some 532 homes were damaged or destroyed in the historic rains that swamped Oahu and Kauai last month, state officials said Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

Damage to public property alone from last month’s flooding and landslides adds up to more than $19.7 million, and 532 homes on Oahu and Kauai were affected — 115 of them left with major damage or destroyed. Star-Advertiser.

Ige's full 25-page disaster declaration request can be found here.

=====

Why No One Wants To Blow The Whistle On Sexual Misconduct. People who experience sexual harassment at the Hawaii State Capitol fear the consequences if they complain. Civil Beat.

Roll Call: Here’s The Best And Worst Attendance Of Legislators This Session. A handful of lawmakers missed at least 10 days, but many had perfect attendance. Civil Beat.

Oxybenzone may soon become a thing of the past. Yesterday, Hawaii lawmakers approved a state-wide ban on the sale of sunscreen containing the chemical. Hawaii Public Radio.

Army installations across Hawaii will receive $2.6 billion in funding over a 32-year period to build and upgrade facilities, as part of he Army’s Hawaii Infrastructure Readiness Initiative. Pacific Business News.

Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee Rowena Akana said she plans to fight an ethics charge alleging violations linked to cash she accepted to help pay for legal fees and for using her trustee allowance to buy things such as home cable television services and a home security system. Star-Advertiser.

OHA trustee says she'll fight ethics charges 'to the death'. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Public Schools to launch new online lunch payment system on May 7. KHON2.

Hokulea is back on dry land after getting damaged. The voyaging canoe ran aground as it made its way towards Kawaihae Harbor on the Big Island. The canoe's hull was damaged. KHON2.

Oahu

Eight private Kakaako roads subject to new standards law. A bill signed into law by Gov. David Ige on Tuesday aims to make the owners of the roads responsible for upgrading the thoroughfares to meet city standards — something that could prove to be very costly — or quit charging for parking. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation will be looking for its third director of planning, permitting and right of way since November 2016 following the resignation of Abbey Mayer. Star-Advertiser.

While dozens of homeless people swept out of Kakaako parks set up new campsites in mauka parts of Kakaako, social service outreach workers also moved two homeless Kakaako families into public housing. Star-Advertiser.

The state’s largest utility is proposing to plug two batteries — really big batteries — into Oahu’s electricity grid to increase development, efficiency and cost savings of renewable energy production plants. Star-Advertiser.

Efforts to improve the beach parks mean lifeguards are spending precious time — moving their gear. At some Oahu beaches, lifesaving beach equipment is being transported to and from lifeguard towers every day. Hawaii News Now.

Coral out-plantings thriving at Sand Island. In the filtered light streaming through the ocean at Sand Island, Hawaii’s newest garden is thriving on five pyramids attached to the substrate. Garden Island.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii County officials are advising lower Puna residents to be prepared to evacuate should a new eruption occur on Kilauea’s East Rift Zone. Tribune-Herald.

Underground Magma On The Move As Quakes Rattle Volcano. It may have already gone under the highway to the viewing area, and Hawaii County is making preparations for a possible eruption. Associated Press.

At least a couple of cracks formed in the roadways near Leilani Estates in Puna Wednesday, offering up the latest sign that Kilauea Volcano may be drawing closer to a new eruption. Star-Advertiser.

The Puna district on Hawaii's Big Island was placed under a volcano watch after a crater floor collapsed at Kilauea Volcano causing dozens of small earthquakes in the volcano’s east rift zone over the past several days, prompting federal, state and local authorities to prepare for a possible eruption. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park closed nearly 16,000 acres on Kilauea Volcano today as the possibility for a new eruption looms over the area and surrounding communities. Star-Advertiser.

VIDEO: New Flyover Reveals Deep Hole At Puu Oo As Lava Moves Downrift. Big Island Video News.

Swarms of earthquakes — as many as eight to 10 temblors per hour — continue to rattle Puna, and residents along Kilauea's east rift zone are being told to prepare for a possible eruption that could come with "very little warning" to evacuate. Hawaii News Now.

Residents in Lower Puna are being advised to stay informed with County and U.S. Geological Survey updates because of recent volcanic activity in the area. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hundreds of small earthquakes continue to rattle the Big Island, raising concerns of a possible eruption from Kilauea Volcano. Emergency officials are already preparing for possible evacuations. KHON2.

Hawaii Island hit with earthquakes again Wednesday.  Some residents are on alert after increased activity at Kilauea Volcano. KITV.

=====

Kohala Councilman Tim Richards said he will recuse himself from voting on a bill regulating vacation rentals until the Board of Ethics clears him of a potential conflict of interest. West Hawaii Today.

Another $6.8 million has been added to the tab for phase 2 of the Queen Kaahumanu Highway widening project. West Hawaii Today.

Friends of Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden is one step closer to securing the landmark garden and re-opening it to the public. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The son of Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry plans to build a nearly 8,000-square-foot home with an infinity swimming pool and spa over the next couple years in Kaanapali. Maui News.

Kauai

A joint preliminary damage assessment released Wednesday found the April flooding caused nearly $11 million in damages on Kauai. Garden Island.

Disaster recovery on Kauai is making progress with the help of good Samaritans. Samaritan’s Purse, a North Carolina-based Christian relief organization, on Wednesday landed at Lihue Airport with supplies and disaster specialists on the organization’s DC-8 cargo plane that departed from Greensboro. Garden Island.

Wednesday, May 2, 2018

Friday, April 27, 2018

Hot, hot, hot! Hawaii tourism breaking records, lawmakers fail to reach Airbnb tax deal, state could be the last one to set police standards, Big Island mayor hospitalized, Honolulu homeless sweeps fail, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

NPS J Wei
Kilauea lava hits ocean PC: NPS J Wei
The more than 2 million visitors that visited the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park in 2017 spent $166 million in communities near the park, according to a new National Park Service report. Pacific Business News.

More than 2 million visitors entered Hawaii Volcanoes National Park last year and collectively spent nearly $170 million in communities around Hawaii Island. Tribune-Herald.

Get ready for 10 million tourists. The state’s rampaging visitor industry could top that benchmark this year. Star-Advertiser.

Visitors to the Hawaiian Islands spent a total of $4.8 billion in the first quarter, an increase of 10.1 percent compared to the first quarter of 2017, according to preliminary statistics released Thursday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Garden Island.

Lawmakers appear to have failed for a third straight year to resolve the conundrum over how best to tap into millions of dollars in uncollected state taxes from short-term vacation rentals without encouraging or endorsing illegal operators. Star-Advertiser.

What bills passed as the legislative session is near the end. KITV.

Hawaii May Soon Join The Other 49 States In Setting Police Standards. A conference committee of legislators agrees to a bill that establishes a standards board instead of just studying the idea. Civil Beat.

Passage of Restrictive Pesticide Use Reporting Bill Delayed. The state legislature has only one day left to settle House and Senate differences on all money-related bills for final passage next week. Hawaii Public Radio.

A measure that would require the counties to remove abandoned vehicles from public roadways in ten business days is going to a vote before the full house and senate. Hawaii News Now.

Two former Hawaii prison inmates are urging lawmakers to audit the state prison system and to focus the inquiry on the use of long-term lockdowns and chemical irritants such as pepper spray on Hawaii inmates housed in a privately run prison on the mainland. Star-Advertiser.

House Halts Bill To Water Down Financial Disclosures Of Key State Leaders. Supporters wanted volunteers on state boards to be more comfortable; critics wanted to preserve transparency. Civil Beat.

Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander students are far more likely to be suspended and expelled in Hawaii than students of other ethnicities, causing them to miss more school days overall, according to newly released federal data. Civil Beat.

Hawaii State Hospital escapee Randall Saito deemed fit to stand trial. Associated Press.

The lawyer for Randall Saito says if the state wants to find out how the acquitted killer escaped from the Hawaii State Hospital, state lawyers should offer Saito a deal. Star-Advertiser.

Southwest Airlines plans to start service to Hawaii from one mainland city, then ramp up “very, very quickly” based on having the lowest fares to the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Southwest Airlines is coming to Hawaii, but there are still a few layovers before the airline officially touches down. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu

State conducts homeless sweep in Diamond Head. State enforcement officers cleared the slopes of Diamond Head Thursday, which have become a hideaway for the island's homeless. KHON2.

Crews cleared 26 homeless camps along Diamond Head Road early Thursday morning. KITV.

Homeless return to Kakaako park, dodging enforcement through a jurisdiction loophole. Hawaii News Now.

A controversial plan to partially destroy a popular man-made swimming cove at Black Point near Diamond Head has won the support of a state coastal lands office. Star-Advertiser.

Community clean up planned for a mass of nets at a Diamond Head beach. Hawaii News Now.

Cleanup efforts underway at Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor. DLNR Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation says the debris comes from upstream in the Ala Wai Canal. KITV.

Will The Kealoha Case Be One Big Show Or Separate Trials? A judge will soon decide whether to grant defendants’ wishes to split up the case or fulfill prosecutors’ desire to keep it intact. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige has directed the state Department of Agriculture to assist farmers whose operations were heavily damaged by the severe flooding on Kauai and Oahu earlier this month. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu medical examiner forced to store human remains off site. Hawaii News Now.

As drivers endure weekend freeway closures, DOT adjusts work schedule (again). Hawaii News Now.

A transformer fire at the University of Hawaii at Manoa that sent thick, black smoke into the air over Honolulu last week has been ruled accidental, according to the Honolulu Fire Department. Hawaii News Now.

Sinkhole forces closure of block of Ward Avenue. Star-Advertiser.

Veteran newsman Ron Mizutani is leaving television station KHON to become president and CEO of the Hawaii Food Bank. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Star-Advertiser and its parent company, Oahu Publications Inc., are attracting international media industry interest and accolades after the newspaper’s successful launch of its Digital Billboard Network. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island


Well-wishers flooded Mayor Harry Kim’s office Thursday with phone calls, emails and get-well cards and were turned away from his Honolulu hospital room after the mayor, who previously suffered three heart attacks, checked himself in for evaluation after experiencing chest pains. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim is in stable condition at The Queens Medical Center in Honolulu, officials say, after being medevaced early Thursday as a precaution due to chest pains. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii County mayor Harry Kim is in stable condition at the Queen's Medical Center in Honolulu after experiencing chest pains Thursday morning. KHON2.

Overflows largest since Kilauea summit eruption began. Tribune-Herald.

Kalapana residents to county: Don’t move lava viewing area parking. Tribune-Herald.

County officials met with a crowd of Kalapana area residents and entrepreneurs in Pahoa Wednesday night concerning a July 1 prohibition on commercial activity within any County right-of-way at the lava viewing area. Big Island Video News.

Committee Passes Hilo Economic Revitalization Bill. Big Island Now.

The college enrollment rate among East Hawaii high school students increased last year, albeit still shy of the statewide average. Tribune-Herald.

Students witness high court in action. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui visitor spending increased +12.7% to $1.46 billion in the first quarter of 2018, according to new information compiled by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Maui Now.

Economics professor Carl Bonham asked, rhetorically, Thursday whether Maui has reached its capacity to accommodate growing numbers of tourists. Maui News.

Southwest Airlines’ chairman announced Thursday that the airline intends to service four Hawaii airports, including Kahului Airport, with Maui officials saying they have been in discussions with the airline about the “pockets” of open slots at the crowded terminal. Maui News.

The Hawaii Senate on Wednesday confirmed the appointment of Kirstin Hamman to the District Court of the Second Circuit on Maui. Maui Now.

Kauai

Concerned citizens gathered Thursday to better understand the present flow of Kauai’s inland waters. Garden Island.

The Hawaii Department of Transportation is on track to open an emergency access route to Wainiha and Haena on Saturday. Garden Island.

The only highway into and out of the flood-devastated communities of Wainiha and Haena isn't expected to partially reopen for residents for at least two more weeks, but emergency vehicle access to those areas may happen sooner than expected. Hawaii News Now.

Federal funds still in question after Kauai disaster. KHON2.