Hawaii News

Hawaiʻi is still dealing with the fallout from recent storms while another system, Tropical Depression Fifteen-E, moves closer to the islands. On the Big Island, Big Island Now reports the system could bring 15 to 20 inches of rain, with maximum amounts of 35 inches, and Maui Now says it is forecast to be near major hurricane strength as it nears Hawaiʻi Island late Friday or Saturday as Nolo. Kauaʻi is also in recovery mode after Hurricane Lowell: Kauaʻi Now reports county phone lines are being restored, while separate coverage says state and county emergency orders are waiving fees and penalties to help residents repair homes and stay on the road. Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative also says just more than 700 members remain without power.

Storm impacts are showing up in public safety and community response across the islands. On Kauaʻi, the Red Cross installed 145 smoke alarms after a recent brush fire near Kaumakani Village, and Maui Now says OHCRA canceled the 2026 Nā Wāhine O Ke Kai and Molokaʻi Canoe Festival because of developing weather conditions. On the Big Island, Big Island Now reports the water department may waive an upcoming bill for Kaʻū customers affected by Hurricane Lala, including customers who lost service, meters or had to boil water.

Beyond weather, several stories point to longer-running state and county issues. Maui Now reports the Ninth Circuit upheld Hawaiʻi firearm licensing requirements, while another Maui story says a Filipino national pleaded guilty to unlawfully voting as an alien during the 2024 election. Maui County is also working on workforce pathways through Project Pilina and continuing debate over the South Maui Community Plan update. On the Big Island, a murder case tied to a Hawaiian Paradise Park shooting is moving forward, and on Kauaʻi, police are investigating a fatal Kekaha traffic crash. Education and tourism also remain active themes, with Maui and Kauaʻi stories on student recognition and a statewide visitor industry conference in Honolulu.