Showing posts with label weather. Show all posts
Showing posts with label weather. Show all posts

Tuesday, December 7, 2021

State orders Navy to pause Red Hill operations, state commemorates 80th anniversary of Pearl Harbor bombing, rain soaks the state, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro and Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday tour the Red Hill fuel storage facility on Dec. 6, 2021. PC:Office of the Secretary of the Navy

State orders Navy to suspend operations at Red Hill, de-fuel underground tanks. In a significant move Monday night, the governor ordered the Navy to empty its Red Hill underground fuel storage tanks amid an investigation into tainted drinking water. Petroleum has been found in the Pearl Harbor-Hickam water system’s Red Hill well. Hawaii News Now. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Associated Press. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

It Could Cost Billions For The Navy To Move Red Hill Fuel. A 2018 study found that building a new jet fuel facility to replace the aging tanks at Red Hill could cost as much as $10 billion and could take until 2051. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Military Families Move Into Hotels Amid Red Hill Water Crisis. The hotel industry is once again providing emergency shelter, this time for families who need clean water. Civil Beat.

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Survivors, WWII veterans to commemorate 80th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. At least 30 survivors, and more than 120 World War II veterans, will be attending the 80th commemoration of the Pearl Harbor attack on Tuesday, Dec. 7. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now. 

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Storm brings over 14 inches of rain to some spots, and still counting. The strong Kona low northwest of Hawaii has brought downpours that dumped over 14 inches of rain on Hawaii Island and nearly 13 inches on Maui in 48 hours. Hawaii News Now.

Storm sweeps across Hawaiʻi, brings threat of ‘catastrophic’ floods.
A strong storm packing high winds and extremely heavy rain flooded roads and knocked out power across Hawaiʻi, with officials warning Monday of potentially worse conditions ahead. Hawaii Public Radio. Hawaii News Now. Star-Advertiser.

Recruitment Closes Quickly for 46 In-Demand Conservation Officer Jobs. About 36-hours after the official application period opened for 46 conservation officer positions, department officials closed recruitment, quickly fulfilling application limits. Maui Now.

Hawaii health officials find 2 more omicron infections; investigate 8 additional possible cases. State health officials report two additional confirmed omicron variant COVID-19 cases and several possible points of exposure, urging NY anime convention goers and Waipahu church members to get tested. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Big Island Now. KHON2.

Hawaii reports 90 new coronavirus cases, bringing statewide total to 88,385. The new confirmed and probable infection count by island includes 45 new cases on Oahu, 13 each on Maui and Kauai, 12 on Hawaii Island, and seven Hawaii residents diagnosed outside the state. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu under emergency proclamation as power outages, flooding reported across Oahu. Mayor Rick Blangiardi signed an emergency proclamation for the City and County of Honolulu Monday night as Oahu experienced hours of heavy rains, strong winds and flooding from a Kona Low that produced a Flash Flood Warning Monday afternoon. KHON2.

The median price of a single-family home on Oahu jumps to $1,050,000 from $872,500. Oahu real estate prices in November matched all-time highs as properties spent little time on the market before being scooped up by hungry buyers. Star-Advertiser.

Lawsuit Alleges Honolulu Police Shot, Killed Man With No Justification
. Dana Brown’s family is suing the City and County of Honolulu for wrongful death after he was shot and killed by HPD in 2019. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

‘Kona low’ blasts Big Isle. Hawaii County Civil Defense said it will begin damage assessments today after a winter weather system known as a “Kona low” generated high winds and torrential downpours in parts of the Big Island over the weekend and Monday. Tribune-Herald. Hawaii News Now.

Resolution urges pursuit of Metropolitan Planning Organization.
A resolution that will be discussed at Wednesday’s meeting of the County Council urges the county to assess the feasibility of establishing a Metropolitan Planning Organization. Tribune-Herald.

Supreme Court remands Bolton rock-crushing case
: Court cites ‘abuse of discretion’ by 2016 planning director. The Hawaii Supreme Court has sent a 2016 permit controversy over a North Kona rock-crushing operation back to the Leeward Planning Commission, saying the county erred when it didn’t allow an intervenor to participate in the process. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Ex-Maui police officer convicted of federal crimes arrested again in child sex sting. Brandon Saffeels was arrested Saturday night during Operation Keiki Shield — a joint operation by county, state and federal agencies to track down child predators. Last month, Saffeels was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to honest services fraud, he admitted to soliciting sex from a woman he arrested for DUI in 2019. Hawaii News Now.

Flooded roads, cars stuck in mud
: On Maui, strong system leaves behind a big mess. The storm knocked out power in many parts of the Valley Isle, including Kahului Airport on Sunday night, and service still has not been restored to thousands of customers. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Kekaulike Avenue in Kula Remains Closed Due to Storm Impacts. The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation announces that Kekaulike Avenue between Mile 8 (vicinity of Maui Wedding Flowers) and Alae Road will remain closed until further notice. Maui Now.

Lanai tour and service program could start in May. A one-day tour to Lanai will be launched possibly in May for visitors to learn more about the cultural, historical and ecological aspects of the island and volunteer in a service activity before they leave. The program is one of the initiatives that have come out of the Destination Management Action Plan for Lanai. Maui News.

Kauai

‘Kona low’ rains down on Kaua‘i. The heavy rain that lashed most of Kaua‘i throughout Monday was the precursor to moist and unstable conditions expected to last through Tuesday. Garden Island.

Voter service center opens, ballots coming in for Kaua‘i special election. About 17% of registered Kaua‘i voters have already returned their ballots for the Prosecuting Attorney Special Primary Election. Garden Island.

Monday, December 6, 2021

State of emergency as 'Kona low' sweeps Hawaii, Ige joins call to suspend Red Hill fuel storage, Maui closes government offices, schools, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

5 a.m. Dec. 6 radar over the Hawaiian Islands PC:NWS

State of emergency in effect across Hawaii as potent storm wallops islands. A potent storm has begun to wallop the Hawaiian Islands with gusty winds and widespread flooding rain, with blizzard conditions expected at some higher elevations, AccuWeather forecasters say. A state of emergency was issued for Hawaii on Sunday morning due to the intense flooding and blizzard conditions. Accuweather. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

80th Pearl Harbor Remembrance events include solemn ceremonies, live underwater dive. The National Park Service and Navy Region Hawaii, with the support of Pacific Historic Parks, are hosting a series of events Sunday through Thursday as part of the 80th National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Commemoration. Star-Advertiser.

Former governors defend emergency proclamations. Two of Hawaii’s former governors defended the statutory power assigned to the state’s chief executive to proclaim emergencies during public crises. John Waihee and Neil Abercrombie, both Democrats, addressed the issue of proclamation fatigue experienced by some Hawaii citizens and legislators. Tribune-Herald.

Advisory Group Separates From Federal Fishery Council.
The Aha Moku Advisory Committee says Wespac does not influence its recommendations to the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s Avocado Farmers Are Bracing For A New Threat. The avocado lace bug has burst onto orchards, causing reduced yields, smaller fruit size and an increase in blemished fruit that can’t be sold. Civil Beat.

Hawaii records 1 new coronavirus-related death, 148 additional infections. The new confirmed and probable infection count by island includes 80 new cases on Oahu, 18 on Hawaii Island, 18 on Maui, 11 on Kauai and 21 Hawaii residents diagnosed outside the state. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Gov. David Ige joins call to suspend Red Hill fuel storage operation.
Gov. David Ige and Hawaii’s congressional delegation on Sunday called for the Navy to suspend its Red Hill fuel storage operation until its drinking water contamination crisis is handled. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

Navy water sampling at Red Hill well detected petroleum contamination months ago. State Health Department officials said that on Nov. 24, the Navy finally provided it with four months of test results taken from samples collected in July through October, including the results showing petroleum contamination in the Red Hill shaft. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii Public Radio.

From ‘Sacred Place’ To ‘Dumping Ground,’ West Oahu Confronts A Legacy Of Landfills. Mental health professionals say the community is working to overcome the negative stereotypes associated with decades of hosting the island’s less desirable municipal facilities. Civil Beat.

New Waikiki restaurants rise amid COVID pandemic. While the pandemic created challenges, it also created opportunities. That’s evident in Waikiki where the pandemic plunge has given rise to a wave of more than 15 restaurant openings as well as significant expansions and reinvestment. Star-Advertiser.

In Kaimuki, Eclectic Businesses Are Rising From The Ashes Of The Pandemic. Many of the businesses combine more than one revenue stream — haircuts and drinks, for instance —  and they are embracing the neighborhood’s Main Street vibe. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Council considers legislative priorities
: Lifeguards, fees, fines, Juneteenth top list. Increasing several fees and fines, limiting lifeguard liability and adding Juneteenth to the list of 13 state holidays are among eight priorities Hawaii’s four counties plan to present to the state Legislature. West Hawaii Today.

Meadow Gold seeks to expand processing plant. A draft environmental assessment prepared by the Honolulu consulting firm PBR Hawaii &Associates anticipates a finding of no significant impact to the environment if the project goes forward. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Roth Declares State of Emergency Amid Severe Weather. The State of Emergency is due to the threat of imminent disaster on Hawaiʻi Island by way of potentially heavy rainfall, lightning, high winds associated with thunderstorms and catastrophic flooding. Big Island Now. Big Island Video News.

Hawaiʻi Community College Pālamanui adds 706-acre forest preserve to campus. The area is currently under the jurisdiction of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife. It will now be managed collaboratively with the University of Hawaiʻi. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Maui County Public Schools, UHMC, and KS Maui Closed Dec. 6 Due to Severe Weather. All Hawaiʻi State Department of Education public schools in Maui County — Maui, Lāna‘i and Moloka‘i — will be closed for students and staff tomorrow, Monday, Dec. 6, due to severe weather conditions. Maui Now.

County of Maui Offices Closed on Monday, Dec. 6. The County will reevaluate conditions to determine if operations may resume on Tuesday. Maui Now.

Kīhei Community Center Operating as Emergency Shelter. The Maui Emergency Management Agency in conjunction with the American Red Cross has opened the Kīhei Community Center as an emergency shelter to those affected by the heavy rain and flooding in South Maui. Maui Now.

As immigration services cut back, advocates worry. Services to prepare and review immigrant applications, other forms, discontinued. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i adopts latest waste-management plan, but ‘real work’ is to come. Kaua‘i County’s 2021 Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan was officially taken up last week after the Kaua‘i County Council deferred action in mid-November to revise its adoption resolution. Garden Island.

Public hearing on proposed amendments to Liquor Control rules set for Dec. 9. The proposed amendments involve generally the subjects of penalties, violations, digital signatures, electronic filing, trade names, use of assessed penalties, manager cards and required reports. Garden Island.

County has new permit requirements for park pavilions. In accordance with Mayor’s Emergency Rule 28, the county Department of Parks and Recreation has changed its permit requirements for county park pavilions. Garden Island.

Thursday, February 20, 2020

Hot, hot, hot! 2019 breaks records. Plus, Ige seeks instate testing for coronavirus, convicted ex-police chief seeks leniency, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2020 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Cooling off at Waikiki ©2020 All Hawaii News
It’s official: 2019 was Honolulu’s hottest year on record. Oahu had a sweltering 2019. In fact, it was the island’s hottest year on record, NOAA has determined. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor says 2019 was Oahu’s hottest year ever and shares heat index mapping results. Last year, Honolulu residents may remember hot, sweltering days, with numerous record high temperatures, as well a summer that seemed to last longer than usual. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Has Mapped Just How Hot Oahu Is Now. Climate change has contributed to record heat throughout Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Honolulu saw its hottest year ever recorded in 2019. Honolulu City and County officials said 2019 was the hottest year ever recorded but they are working on solutions, as they said temperatures will only continue to get hotter. KHON2.

2019: a year of record heat for Oahu. It is official: last year was the hottest year on record for Honolulu. Now the mayor and city leaders want more people to plant trees to help ease the heat. KITV4.

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Gov. Ige wants Hawaii to become a test site for coronavirus test kits. Right now, the only test site in the country is the CDC lab in Atlanta, Georgia and it takes more than a week get results for samples from Hawaii. KITV4.

Ige pushes for Hawaii to be beta-tester for virus kits. Gov. David Ige said he wants Hawaii to be a beta-tester for kits that can screen for COVID-19, the newly identified coronavirus that has infected thousands in China and elsewhere in the world. Tribune-Herald.

Ige says no estimated timeline given on when CDC testing kits will arrive. Governor David Ige is just back from Japan and gave us an update on the Coronavirus or COVID-19. KHON2.

Gov. Ige Discusses Coronavirus, TMT. Following his return from a trip to Japan on Tuesday, Gov. Ige held a press conference earlier today to provide updates on the novel coronavirus outbreak and the status of the Thirty Meter Telescope. Maui Now.

No one in state tested for the coronavirus. Hawaii health officials continue to reassure the public that the coronavirus is not circulating in the islands, but they have not tested a single person in the state for the deadly disease. Star-Advertiser.

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Gov. David Ige said Wednesday that preclearance flights from Japan to Hawaii are at least a year out, but the state is working to shorten that window. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers Want More Transparency About Prosecutors’ Charging Decisions. Hawaii’s four county prosecutors worry a proposed bill requires them to provide extra data about defendants without providing their offices any extra funding. Civil Beat.

Bill introduced that would make bestiality against the law in Hawaii. According to the Animal Legal Defense Fund, Hawaii is one of only four states that does not prohibit sex with animals along with New Mexico, Wyoming and West Virginia. KITV4.

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This Helicopter Safety Bill Is Unenforceable. Why Do So Many Lawmakers Support It? Spurred by recent tour helicopter crashes in Hawaii, the proposed legislation would set stiffer state requirements for tour pilots. But the feds, not the state, regulate the skies. Civil Beat.

Legislators take aim at helicopter noise, safety. If it becomes law, Senate Bill 2649 would require that tour aircraft companies seeking a permit to operate in airports under state control equip their aircraft with flotation and tracking devices approved by the Federal Aviation Administration. Tribune-Herald.

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Greenhouse Construction Bill Passes Third Reading in House. A bill expanding the permitting exemption for greenhouse construction on agricultural land passed its third reading in the House of Representatives Tuesday. Big Island Now.

Why So Few Kids In Hawaii Get Tested For Lead Poisoning. Only 25% of kids between 1 and 2 years old get tested, in part because it’s not required. A bill in the Legislature would require mandatory testing for the first time. Civil Beat.

State’s largest public worker union endorses Kai Kahele for U.S. House. The Hawaii Government Employees Association Wednesday endorsed state Sen. Kai Kahele in his bid for the U.S. House seat representing rural Oahu and the neighbor islands, giving a substantial boost to a campaign that already appeared to be quickly gaining momentum. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Ahead of sentencing, ex-Police Chief Louis Kealoha pleads for leniency. Former Honolulu Police Chief and convicted felon Louis Kealoha believes he should spend less than three years for his crimes. Kealoha’s attorney made the argument in a court document that has since been sealed, citing Kealoha’s “long and distinguished record of service and contribution to the community". Hawaii News Now.

Council OKs moving jail to Halawa. A permit clearing the way for the relocation of the Oahu Community Correctional Center to Halawa from Kalihi won an 8-0 approval from the Honolulu City Council Wednesday, but the contentious project still needs funding from state lawmakers. Star-Advertiser.

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City Council approves bill to catch trash dumpers. A bill making it easier for the city to catch and fine people who throw bulky items and other trash along roadsides or other public areas won an 8-0 final approval from the Honolulu City Council Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council passes bill to allow residents to report illegal dumpers. If passed into law, people would be able to send pictures or video to the City’s Department of Environment Services and they would be able to fine that person. KHON2.

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Kawananakoa hearing will be open to public. A judge ruled Wednesday that a hearing to determine whether Campbell Estate heiress Abigail Kawananakoa is capable of handling her own financial affairs will be open to the public except for when the discussion turns to medical and financial information. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Princess Can Testify In Public But Info About Finances, Medical Issues Will Be Kept Secret. A state court judge on Wednesday said medical and financial evidence about millionaire heiress Abigail Kawananakoa will be kept from the public. Civil Beat.

Legal fees in fight over heiress Kawananakoa’s fortune continue to mount. As the fight for Hawaiian royalty descendant Abigail Kawananakoa’s fortune heads to trial next month, both sides are accusing each other of ratcheting up their legal fees, which are now approaching $7 million. Hawaii News Now.

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Charter Commission Director Steps Down For New DOE Role. Sione Thompson was nominated to be the next complex area superintendent for Nanakuli-Waianae. Civil Beat.

New hotel planned near Honolulu airport. Some new hospitality industry competition is planned for part of Oahu where a new hotel hasn’t been built in nearly a half-century. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Governor David Ige says he recently told Japanese officials that the state is committed to the rule of law in regards to the Thirty Meter Telescope planned for Maunakea. Governor Ige said he met with Japan’s Ministry of Education, Science and Technology. Big Island Video News.

Council declines to indemnify fire chief in employment lawsuit. The Hawaii County Council isn’t ready to put taxpayers on the hook for disciplinary actions Fire Chief Darren Rosario took in 2014 that are now the subject of a lawsuit. West Hawaii Today.

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Federal Funding Coming to Kona International Airport. The Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole is set to receive $3.7 million in federal funding for safety improvements, the Federal Aviation Administration announced Wednesday. Big Island Now.

Federal funds are heading to Kona’s airport for improvements. The international airport will receive more than $3.7 million to repair taxiways and runway lighting. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Company faces $25K fine over alleged water wasting. Wailuku Water Co. is facing nearly $25,000 in state fines over claims of wasting a “considerable amount” of state-protected water from its ditch system that poured into a gulch in multiple incidents late last year into January. Maui News.

Maui County Addresses Illegal Encampments at Kanahā Beach Park. The County of Maui departments of Parks and Recreation, Environmental Management, Public Works and Housing and Human Concerns began work today with the Maui Police Department to address illegal encampments and public health and safety concerns at Kanahā Beach Park and in surrounding areas. Maui Now.

Longtime Native Hawaiian Activist Announces Run For House Seat. Walter Ritte has led some of the most iconic cultural movements in modern Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Japanese visitor had symptoms while on Maui. Coronavirus victim originally thought to only be symptomatic during Oahu leg of stay. Maui News.

As virus spreads, face masks sell out. Face masks are flying off the shelves of local hardware stores as residents seek out protection against the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, that’s been spreading around the globe. Maui News.

Kauai

Council considers polystyrene. A measure to ban most polystyrene food containers from Kaua‘i passed first reading before the County Council Wednesday and is set for public hearing Tuesday, March 25. Garden Island.

Anderson is new county department head. The County of Kaua‘i’s Civil Service Commission announced the selection of Annette Anderson as the new director for the county Department of Human Resources. Garden Island.

Groups look to fortify North Shore disaster resilience. Kaua‘i County and two community organizations are working on separate initiatives to harden the North Shore’s defenses in the event of a natural disaster by creating permanent infrastructure to be used if disaster strikes. Garden Island.

Friday, October 18, 2019

Kahuku wind farm protesters arrested as equipment moves to site, wetter than average winter, lawmakers debate flavored e-cigs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2019 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Double rainbow in Hilo ©2019 All Hawaii News
Above-average rainfall and temperatures coming this winter. The National Weather Service announced Thursday that the islands likely will experience above-average rainfall this winter along with warmer-than-normal temperatures. Star-Advertiser.

NOAA Forecast: ‘Above Average’ Rainfall For Hawaii Through April. As such, existing drought is expected to be eliminated by the end of the rainy season. Civil Beat.

National Weather Service: Expect 'Wetter Than Average' Winter. According to the National Weather Service's outlook on the state's wet season, you can expect a "wetter than normal" winter this year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Warmer temps, above average rainfall predicted for upcoming wet season. Weather models predict Hawaii will see a wetter ― and warmer ― wet season, which extends from October through April. Hawaii News Now.

Upcoming Wet Season to Eliminate Current Drought in Hawai‘i. Maui Now.

Forecasters predict wetter-than-average rainy season. Hilo International Airport averages 80.63 inches during the rainy season, October through April. Tribune-Herald.

Ready for rain. It’s going to be a rainy wet season across Hawaii, and Hanalei could be looking at potential flooding throughout the season. Garden Island.

Marine heat waves, like the one behind Hawaii’s sweltering summer, poised to be ‘new normal’. Five years ago, a vast stretch of warm water emerged across the North Pacific Ocean, extending from Alaska to California to Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s surf might disappear completely if climate change worsens, experts say. Hawaii News Now.

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Lawmakers to revisit statewide ban of flavored e-cigarettes. State lawmakers, grappling with how to stop an unprecedented rise in vaping among Hawaii youth, will consider a statewide ban of flavored electronic cigarettes again next legislative session amid a growing outbreak of lung illnesses nationwide. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers discuss options after second case of vaping-related lung illness. After a second vaping-related lung illness was confirmed, lawmakers met today to discuss options for what to do to address the vaping epidemic in Hawaii. KHON2.

Hawaii High Schooler To Legislators: Ban Flavored E-Cigs. Meanwhile, a major Hawaii e-cigarette retailer said a flavor ban wouldn’t do any good. Civil Beat.

State confirms 2nd case of lung illness associated with vaping. State health officials confirmed Thursday that there is now a second severe lung illness case associated with vaping. It involves a young adult from Kauai.  KHON2.

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Shortage of Hawaii Pro Bono Attorneys Hobbles Legal Aid To Asylum-Seekers. As many as 150 Central American migrants seeking asylum have found their way to Hawaii from the U.S. Mexico border. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii to receive $1.5 million from Johnson & Johnson for not properly disclosing side effects of device. Hawaii will receive about $1.5 million from pharmaceutical company Johnson and Johnson for deceiving customers on one of its medical devices. KITV.

Johnson & Johnson, Ethicon Inc. reach $116.9M settlement over medical device: Here's how much Hawaii gets. Hawaii will be receiving $1.5 million from the settlement. Pacific Business News.

Oahu


Wind Farm Protesters Arrested As They Blockade Road For Construction Vehicles. After the arrests, four construction trucks carrying sections of turbines left for the wind farm site in Kahuku. Civil Beat.

Kahuku wind farm convoy blocked by felled electric pole after protesters arrested. Equipment for Kahuku wind farm project leaves Kapolei after police arrest protesters. Police are turning around vehicles on Kamehameha Highway near Sunset Beach because a Hawaiian Electric Co. electric pole was cut down, officers confirmed, presumably to stop the wind turbine convoy from reaching Kahuku. Star-Advertiser.

Police arrest 22 Kahuku wind farm opponents staging late-night blockade in Kalaeloa. Honolulu police arrested 22 opponents of a planned wind energy farm in Kahuku after they tried to block large turbines and other pieces of construction equipment from getting to the North Shore late Thursday into early Friday. Hawaii News Now.

Demonstrators opposed to the new wind turbines on the North Shore are arrested overnight. Police have arrested 22 people in Kalaeloa where demonstrators have been blocking the large wind turbine equipment from leaving the AES Baseyard. KHON2.

Kahuku wind farm opponents arrested during blockade in Kalaeloa. Those opposed to the project are concerned about the environmental and health impacts to the small north shore community. KITV.

Kahuku Wind Farm Protesters Want A Solar Farm Instead. Protesters in Kahuku who have been blocking the movement of equipment for a wind farm said they would support a solar farm in its place. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Navy eyes new 2045 deadline for Red Hill tank improvements. Navy officials said Thursday that they’re committed to finding a way to install a secondary containment system around their massive, underground fuel tanks at Red Hill where 27,000 gallons of fuel leaked in 2014 — and if they can’t, they will remove the fuel around the year 2045. Star-Advertiser.

Navy Resists Calls To Relocate Or Strengthen Red Hill Fuel Tanks. Critics worried about leaks into Honolulu’s drinking water are calling for the Navy to relocate the tanks as fast as possible. Civil Beat.

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Staffer Convicted In Union Vote Rigging No Longer At HART. Yamanoha’s continued employment at HART drew criticism, but rail agency officials won’t say whether he was fired or left voluntarily. Civil Beat.

Once-Defeated Kaneohe Cemetery Expansion Plan Is Back. While many neighbors are mounting opposition to the new proposal, the expansion has the vocal support from several Native Hawaiian organizations. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s Green Energy Projects Search For Ways To Navigate Community Opposition. A number of new solar and wind projects are needed in Oahu to replace the last coal-fired plant, which is scheduled to close in 2022. Civil Beat.

Uncertain future for The Arts at Marks Garage. The Arts at Marks Garage has been a gathering place for local artists for nearly 20 years. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Altitude sickness challenges state officers and TMT protesters. Union filed grievance over evacuations from Mauna Kea. Hawaii News Now obtained a HGEA grievance and letter sent in September to the Department of Public Safety. Hawaii News Now.

UH On Mauna Kea, “Why Are We Stuck?” Greg Chun, the executive director of Maunakea stewardship at the University of Hawaiʻi, gave a talk at UH-Hilo on Thursday about the ongoing conflict on the mountain. Big Island Video News.

University of Hawaii regents call for civility and nonviolence in TMT debate. The University of Hawaii Board of Regents is calling for nonviolence and de- escalation of tension in the university community in connection with the conflict over Mauna Kea. Star-Advertiser.

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NOAA Ship Surveys New Lava Deltas Off Puna. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Ship "Rainier" was off the Puna coast in September, measuring the bathymetry following last summer's lower East Rift Zone lava flows. Big Island Video News.

Kona Community Aquatic Center to reopen Tuesday. The Kona Community Aquatic Center reopens to the public on Tuesday following a lengthy over-the-summer closure. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Council to consider hiring special counsel over charter debate. Attorneys dispute who has authority to withdraw county from injection wells case. Maui News.

Judge Kelsey Kawano Appointed to Maui’s Circuit Court. Maui Judge Kelsey Kawano has been appointed to fill the vacancy on the Circuit Court of the Second Circuit. Maui Now.

Expert: Hawaii could lose ‘localness’ if housing not fixed. 2-day forum on attainable homes held at MACC. Maui News.

Mahi Pono Potatoes to Debut at Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival on Maui. Maui Now.

Ross Opens Third Maui Store, New Anchor Tenant at Lahaina Gateway. Maui Now.

Tori Richard signs lease as part of Westin Maui's $100M upgrade. Tori Richard Ltd. has signed a lease for a 1,100-square-foot lobby retail space at The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Kaanapali, which has been undergoing a $100 million repositioning. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Three Kauai schools on lockdown. Police detained one person and are looking into “persons of interest” in connection to threats that forced lockdowns of school campuses in Lihue and Kapaa for over an hour Thursday. Garden Island.

Wednesday, August 22, 2018

Cat 4 Hurricane Lane bears down on Hawaii, state and counties governments closing, supplies running low at stores, what you need to know to be prepared, plus news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Central Pacific Hurricane Center
Hurricane Lane 5:30 a.m. Wednesday, Central Pacific Hurricane Center
Hurricane Lane weakened slightly overnight but continues its march toward the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Clocking in with maximum sustained winds of 155 mph, Hurricane Lane was located around 315 miles south of Kailua-Kona and 460 miles south-southeast from Honolulu and was headed west-northwest at 9 mph at 5 a.m., according to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Star-Advertiser.

More islands under watches, warnings as Lane bears down on state. Hurricane Lane has weakened slightly, but forecasters warn the massive Category 4 Central Pacific cyclone remains a threat to the entire island chain.  Hawaii News Now.

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

Weather service details potential life-threatening impacts from Lane, and how to prepare. Star-Advertiser.

The governor has issued an emergency proclamation to speed up the state's response to potential impacts from Hurricane Lane. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. David Ige signed an emergency proclamation this afternoon in advance of the arrival of Hurricane Lane, the Category 4 storm approaching the state from the southeast. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Ige isn't taking any chances when it comes to preparing for Hurricane Lane. Ige said Tuesday that Hurricane Lane is behaving unlike any other hurricane he's seen before. KITV.

State emergency officials: Identify a safe room in your home now. Hawaii News Now.

Ahead of Lane, Young Brothers cancels sail of barges to most neighbor islands. Hawaii News Now.

As Hurricane Lane strengthened into a Category 5 hurricane Tuesday, the state’s visitor industry prepared to care for 270,000 tourists in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Closures, cancellations due to threat of Hurricane Lane. Hawaii News Now.

All University of Hawaii campuses and all non-essential university operations on Hawaii island, Maui, Molokai and Lanai will be closed today until further notice due to the approach of Hurricane Lane. Star-Advertiser.

Maui County, Hawaii island courts closed for the rest of the week. KHON2.

Governor David Ige has granted administrative leave for non-essential state employees in Hawaii and Maui counties, as the state prepares for severe weather conditions resulting from Hurricane Lane. State offices on Hawaii Island and Maui will be closed from Wednesday, Aug. 22, 2018 through Friday, Aug. 24, 2018. Maui Now.

Red Cross looking for volunteers in light of approaching hurricane. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii doesn't have enough hurricane shelter space to meet the "estimated demand" of the population. Hawaii News Now.

Outreach workers across the Hawaiian Islands are going to homeless encampments near streambeds and along coastlines to inform homeless people about Hurricane Lane. Civil Beat.

The State Department of Transportation makes Statewide preparations. KITV.

Film Industry Fears Tax Credit Cap Will Drive Away Future Business. Last year was a big one for the film industry here in the island-- generating more than $300 million into the economy according to state’s own business figures. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiian Airlines, which expected great promise from China and spent about a decade trying to get the green light to initiate service, has suspended its only route there after about four years due to low demand. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

City releases extensive ‘Hurricane and tropical storm preparedness’ guide. Star-Advertiser.

Tour boats to the USS Arizona Memorial have been suspended, and ships and planes at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam are expected to be moved from the harbor and airport ahead of Hurricane Lane. Star-Advertiser.

Hurricane preparedness just got real. Costco Hawaii Kai shoppers wiped out 21 pallets of water in 20 minutes just before 6 p.m. Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Shorthanded Honolulu Police Department Tries To Speed Up Hiring. The HPD streamlines its application process and revamps recruitment messages to get more people to consider a career in law enforcement. Civil Beat.

Hawaii-based Army soldier to plead guilty in terrorism case. Birney Bervar, one of Sgt. 1st Class Ikaika Kang’s attorneys, told the AP that Kang will plead guilty as charged in the indictment, which accuses him of providing material aid to terrorists. Associated Press.

Some changes, some resistance in hindsight report on Marco Polo fire. More than a year after the deadly Marco Polo blaze, KHON2 has obtained the fire department's internal review. KHON2.


Hawaii Island

Puna Councilwoman Jen Ruggles was twice asked to leave council committee meetings Tuesday, after she abruptly announced she would not be voting because of her concerns over Native Hawaiian sovereignty and whether her votes constitute war crimes. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Councilwoman Jen Ruggles surprised her fellow councilmembers Tuesday, when she announced before a committee hearing that she “will be refraining from participating in the proposing and enacting of legislation” until county lawyers are able to assure her that she “is not incurring criminal liability under international humanitarian law and U.S. law.” Big Island Video News.

Four additional people have been charged in connection to assisting a man who evaded capture for three days after reportedly killing a Hawaii Police officer last month. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park could reopen parts of the park by September 22, which is also National Public Lands Day, “as long as the current pause in earthquakes and collapse-explosion events at the summit of Kilauea continues”, officials announced today. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park hopes to reopen by next month. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has set a goal to reopen parts of the park by Sept. 22, about four months after it closed as a result of volcanic and seismic activity. Pacific Business News.

Maui

The Office of Council Services and Office of the County Clerk will remain open on Wednesday and the scheduled Land Use Committee meeting will start at 1:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber on the 8th Floor of the County Building as planned, Council Chair Mike White announced today. Maui Now.

Update 6:45 p.m.: Public schools, UH-MC close Wednesday; Haleakala National Park, county offices shut too. State trails, parks close Wednesday, Thursday. Maui News.

Maui County urges all residents to be prepared for Hurricane Lane as a Hurricane Watch travels closer to our islands. Maui Now.

Enrollment is down 285 students from last year as the fall semester began Monday at the University of Hawaii Maui College. Maui News.

Kauai

People rush to buy gasoline, supplies. It was overcast with a slight breeze as people lined the aisles at Home Depot, buying plywood, ducttape, flash lights, batteries and other necessities. Garden Island.

North Shore digs in for storm. As Hurricane Lane approaches, on the North Shore in Wainiha and Haena there’s more than just regular preparation necessary due its isolation. Garden Island.

Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Hawaii judge blocks Trump travel ban; Hawaii AG sues Homeland Security, Department of Education; Honolulu police chief candidate has spotty record; Spam now under lock and key; released inmate allegedly sets fire to old Hilo jail, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2017 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hula on Honolulu palace lawn © 2017 All Hawaii News
Honolulu has been named one of the top cities in NerdWallet's new quality of life ranking. Hawaii's state capital ranked 18th out of 177 U.S. cities with a population of more than 150,000. Pacific Business News.

A federal judge in Hawaii blocked most of President Donald Trump’s latest travel ban Tuesday, just hours before it was set to take effect, saying the revised order “suffers from precisely the same maladies as its predecessor.” Associated Press.

Federal District Judge Derrick K. Watson today ordered a nationwide injunction against President Donald Trump’s third travel ban. Maui Now.

See the judge's full temporary restraining order on Trump's travel ban here.

Hawaii’s missile defense urged as North Korean threat persists. Although the United States has been stymied in reining in North Korea’s nuclear program, a former U.S. Pacific Command deputy commander said President Donald Trump’s tough words can be matched with real action by enhancing the defense of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Months after President Donald Trump declared – by Tweet – that he would ban transgender individuals from serving in the U.S. military, Democratic-led states are joining together in opposition. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Joins 10 States Suing Homeland Security Department. Attorney General Doug Chin joined a coalition of 10 attorneys general in suing the U.S. Department of Homeland Security today for its failure to respond to a request for information relating to the detention and deportation of immigrants. Maui Now.

Discussions underway over where Trump should stay during Oahu visit. Sources say there are discussions underway about whether to put the president up at the Marine Corps Base Hawaii or in Waikiki during his stay Nov. 3. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Is Still Falling Short In Its Inspections Of Health Care Facilities. The state has been doing better at inspecting nursing homes, but lack of staff means other inspections take a back seat. Civil Beat.

A statewide coalition of health professionals, educators, business and community representatives are teaming up to record oral health data in Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii sues US Department of Education. Attorney General Doug Chin on Tuesday joined a coalition of 18 states led by Maryland Attorney General Brian E. Frosh and Pennsylvania Attorney General Joshua Shapiro in suing the U.S. Department of Education and Secretary Betsy DeVos for refusing to enforce the Gainful Employment Rule, a federal regulation designed to protect students from predatory for-profit schools. KITV.

The state Department of Agriculture said Tuesday it began airing three public service announcements promoting agricultural food safety in the community. Star-Advertiser.

Just days before Island Air filed for bankruptcy protection, it was in a pitched battle with the owner of three of its five planes to prevent the turboprops from being repossessed. Star-Advertiser.

After a (really dry) dry season, Hawaii's about to see a wetter, wet season. From October through April, the National Weather Service predicts more rain than what the state normally gets during Hawaii's "wet season," but it's forecast to fall mostly over windward areas. Hawaii News Now.

Wet season expected to be rainy but uneven across isles. The National Weather Serv­ice released its annual wet-season forecast Tuesday, saying an above-­average rainy season is likely for the windward areas of the islands, while signals remain cloudy as to whether leeward areas will see more rain than usual. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Finalist for police chief defends integrity after criminal trial 24 years ago. Retired federal agent Thomas Aiu is being forced to defend himself after questions have been raised regarding his testimony in a 1992 tax fraud case, United States v. Harada. Hawaii News Now.

2 tentatively agree to serve as city police commissioners. The Honolulu Police Commission could soon have a full complement of seven members again, but likely not before the panel picks a new chief. Star-Advertiser.

City officials said enforcement of a new ban on smoking in cars with keiki will begin immediately without any educational or warning period. Star-Advertiser.

Former accountant gets 20-year term for embezzlement. State sheriff deputies took the former managing partner of what was one of Hawaii’s largest accounting firms into custody today after a state judge sentenced him to prison for stealing more than $400,000 from the company. Star-Advertiser.

Patrick Oki, the former managing partner of accounting firm PKF Pacific Hawaii LLP, was sentenced to 20 years in prison on Tuesday for stealing more than $400,000 from the company. Pacific Business News.

A 45-year-old woman whose job it was to collect payment from advertisers in Hawaii Magazine, Honolulu Magazine and Hawaii Business magazine admitted Tuesday in U.S. District Court that she deposited checks worth more than $3.8 million into her own bank accounts instead of the account of her employer. Star-Advertiser.

Sacred Hearts Academy, an all-girls Catholic school in Kaimuki, has fired a teacher after two high school students reported “inappropriate behavior,” according to a letter sent to alumnae on Friday. Star-Advertiser.

Homeless accused of siphoning gas, vandalizing moving company's trucks. A moving company in Mapunapuna has become the repeated target of theft and vandalism. Hawaii News Now.

A private helicopter, which was headed to help in the search for a downed chopper off Molokai, lost power and made an emergency landing at the Waipio Soccer Complex in Central Oahu at around 1 p.m. Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Why It’s So Difficult To Clean Up This Honolulu Hoarder House. The city is seeking a court order to clean up a house where decades of piled trash have provided a haven for rats and feral cats. Civil Beat.

A Hawaii family with over 1,600 acres in the Waianae mountains is on a mission to restore the natural forest, one sapling at a time. Hawaii News Now.

Target’s seventh store in Hawaii is getting ready to welcome customers. There are high hopes for the new location at Ala Moana Center. KHON2.

Get ready — Target is about to open in Ala Moana Center. The largest Target store in Hawaii is set to open this weekend. Hawaii News Now.

Commentary: Why Spam Is Now Under Lock-And-Key At Oahu Stores. The popular canned meat is a favorite target of thieves in Honolulu, who sometimes sell the goods for quick cash to buy drugs. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

A man released from jail Monday is suspected of intentionally starting a fire at the old Hilo jail hours after his release. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Police have more information on Monday night’s fire at the old Hilo jail, which they are investigating as a burglary and arson, and the 33-year-old male that was arrested at the scene. Big Island Video News.

The days were numbered for the old Hilo jail before a former inmate allegedly set it on fire Monday evening. Toni Schwartz, spokeswoman for the state Department of Public Safety, said the unoccupied building will be torn down next year. Tribune-Herald.

Authorities are investigating the theft of two county vehicles later found torched in South Kona. West Hawaii Today.

During a public meeting held Monday night in Keaukaha, the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands introduced beneficiaries to a new plan to Subsistence Agriculture Lots for homesteaders in Honomu. Big Island Video News.

Maui

The Army Corps of Engineers will repair nearly 4,000 linear feet of levees in Wailuku River that almost collapsed due to last year’s 100-year flood. Maui News.

The state has certified Maui’s first medical marijuana laboratory to test the purity of the drug for Hawaii’s dispensaries. Star-Advertiser.

Maui-based Pharmlabs Hawaii LLC is the state’s second laboratory to be given the greenlight to begin testing for medical cannabis, according to the Hawaii State Department of Health, which oversees the state’s medical marijuana program. Pacific Business News.

Maui Lab Gets Green Light on Medical Marijuana Testing. Pharmlab Hawaii LLC, a private independent laboratory on Maui, has been given the green light to begin testing medical cannabis from Hawaii’s licensed medical cannabis dispensaries and registered patients and caregivers. Maui Now.

Kauai

The state Department of Education reports that seven qualified school bus drivers are still needed on Kauai. Garden Island.

The state’s account of the project to rid Lehua of invasive rats will be aired on KFVE-TV (K5) in a half-hour documentary this weekend. The program was produced by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources with support from the Lehua Island Restoration Steering Committee, which represents organizations and agencies involved in the project. Garden Island.

First whale sighted off Kauai. Visitor documents first humpback sighting near Kauai. Garden Island.

Kauai police are warning the public to be aware of a financial letter scam being circulated to Kauai residents. Garden Island.

Kauai students help release 3 shearwaters into the wild. Keiki from Kauai's Island School released three Newell Shearwaters into the wild at the shore near Lydgate Park Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Molokai

Flight instructor, student missing after helicopter goes down off Molokai. The U.S. Coast Guard and the Maui County Fire Department continued to search for two people today from a helicopter that went down Monday night off the northwest coast of Molokai.  Star-Advertiser.

Still no sign of 2 on board downed chopper near Molokai. Rescue crews continued their search Tuesday for a downed chopper near Molokai by air and sea, but the whereabouts of the two on board remain unknown. Hawaii News Now.

The National Transportation Safety Board released their final accident report of a Cessna that went down near Molokai in December 2016 with three friends on board. Hawaii News Now.


Lanai
 The Lanai Landfill will close early, at 1 p.m., today through Saturday because of insufficient staffing, the county Department of Environmental Management’s Solid Waste Division announced. Maui News.

Thursday, August 7, 2014

Hurricanes Iselle, Julio churn toward Hawaii, Democrats call off statewide rally, government, schools close Thursday, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Central Pacific Hurricane Center
Hurricane Iselle track 5 a.m. August 7 Central Pacific Hurricane Center
At 5 a.m. on Thursday morning, Hurricane Iselle was located about 305 miles east-southeast of Hilo and was moving west-northwest at 15 miles per hour. It had maximum sustained winds of 80 miles per hour, weakened slightly from the 2 a.m. forecast, with higher gusts of up to 98 miles per hour. Iselle remains a Category 1 hurricane. Hawaii News Now.

After Hurricane Iselle surprised forecasters Wednesday by gaining strength, it may now become the first hurricane to make landfall in Hawaii since Iniki 22 years ago. Star-Advertiser.

Hurricane Iselle, the first hurricane that could hit the Big island in more than 20 years, was steadily churning toward Hilo and expected to make landfall Thursday. Civil Beat.

A hurricane warning has been issued for the Big Island and surrounding waters, according to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center.  A tropical storm warning is also in effect for Maui County and Oahu. KITV4.

Hawaii residents were furiously stocking up on essentials as two hurricanes churned toward the islands Wednesday and weather officials asked the whole state to prepare for flash flooding. Associated Press.

Democrats, concerned about the approaching storms, have called off their traditional election eve rally on Friday in Hilo. For more than a half century, Democratic candidates have gathered at the Mooheau Bandstand in Hilo for a get-out-the-vote event the night before elections. Star-Advertiser.

State officials have released a list of emergency shelters in preparation for Hurricane Iselle. Officials say the shelters are a last resort if you have absolutely no place else to go, or if your home is not in a safe place. If you need to go to a shelter- bring emergency supplies with you. Hawaii Public Radio.

Central Pacific Hurricane Center
Hurricane Iselle
 All of Hawaii’s major utilities are working to make sure their customers have what they need to ride out the storms. KHON2.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie today signed an emergency proclamation in anticipation of the arrival of two tropical cyclones in Hawaii. Hurricane Iselle is forecast to impact the state Thursday evening through late Friday. Hurricane Julio is a few days behind Iselle and may impact the islands as soon as Sunday. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii’s governor is an incredibly powerful office, able to appoint more than 1,000 people to important executive offices, boards, and commissions. Hawaii Independent.

The race for the Democratic nomination for Hawai’i Governor is headed to the finish line Saturday.   If the initial tally of votes are close, meaning they are split down the middle, the neighbor island electorate will likely decide who the winner will be. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

As two hurricane-strength storms approach Oahu, the city has no comprehensive emergency plan in place for the densely populated, low-lying area of Waikiki, and a "statewide" plan addresses only Oahu. Civil Beat.

Honolulu officials are collaborating with emergency service providers and others to ensure Oahu's homeless population is well-informed about hurricane shelters and shuttle service as back-to-back storms approach. Star-Advertiser.

The Department of Emergency Management advises Oahu residents that the following American Red Cross hurricane shelters will be available and open for evacuees on Thursday, August 7 at 10:00 p.m. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii retailers ready for whatever two hurricanes — Iselle and Julio — will bring. Pacific Business News.

Amid continued protests from University of Hawaii at Manoa students seeking the reinstatement of fired Chancellor Tom Apple, Board of Regents Chairman Randy Moore says he fully supports the decision made a week ago to terminate Apple two years into a five-year appointment. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The Big Island should brace for a pasting of rain and wind, and the leeward side is no exception. West Hawaii Today.

Eight people gathered Wednesday at the State Building in Hilo to announce they will request the state Attorney General’s Office investigate alleged voting and tax irregularities by Tiffany Edwards Hunt, who is running for the County Council District 5 seat. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County Council unanimously agreed Wednesday to ask the state Board of Agriculture to deny a local dairy the ability to sell milk at a lower wholesale price. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The mayor’s office announced that it will be sending home all non-emergency county employees at noon on Thursday, Aug. 7, 2014, with the possible exception of county elections employees. Maui Now.

Kauai

The County of Kauai is finalizing a list of potential shelter sites for people looking to bunker down if forced from their homes by hurricanes Iselle and Julio. Garden Island.