County urges water conservation as storm approaches

Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park closes today

The Department of Water Supply is asking customers countywide to conserve water and reduce consumption through Sunday due to heavy rains in the forecast and possible power outages that would disrupt water pumping and distribution.

Conservation measures include refraining from washing cars, washing down sidewalks and driveways and watering lawns, the county said Thursday. Residents and visitors are encouraged to store water and prepare for potential water service outages. For emergency repairs and updates, call (808) 270-6733.

The county also urged the public to prepare for the Kona low that is expected to “force a plume of deep tropical moisture over the islands for the next few days,” the National Weather Service said. With heavy rainfall and a few thunderstorms in the forecast, all islands remain under a flood watch through 6 p.m. Saturday.

“With the forecast for weather that could bring dangerous conditions, it’s important to stay informed, be prepared, and look out for each other,” Mayor Richard Bissen Jr. said in a news release Thursday. “We have begun coordination efforts with our State partners, and our County departments have been busy with necessary pre-storm work including clearing storm drain pipes and culverts. Along with the County’s Emergency Management Agency, our departments are readying their operations in order to support our community should the forecasted severe weather occur.”

The public is advised to avoid ocean activities during the storm, avoid water from runoff that could be contaminated, drive slowly in limited visibility conditions and avoid streams, rivers, drainage ditches, culverts and other areas prone to flooding and landslides, the county said.

The National Park Service also announced that the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park will be closed today due to the risk of extreme flash flooding, road closures, landslides and road washouts in East Maui. All camping reservations for the Kipahulu Campground for today have been canceled. The park service will reassess conditions in the Kipahulu District on Saturday and reopen when it is deemed safe to do so. While the Summit District remains open, park visitors and sunrise reservation holders should check weather conditions prior to traveling to the park. Changes in the park’s status will be posted at nps.gov/hale. For information and notifications on road closures across the county, visit mauicounty.gov/road-clos ures. To sign up for alerts from the Maui County Emergency Management Agency, visit mauicounty.gov/me ma-signup.