Storm-Related Power Outages Impact Upwards of 20K on Big Island

Hawaiian Electric crews continued work Monday to restore electric service to customers impacted by the storm system that has hovered over the Hawaiian Islands for several days.

Since Sunday, an estimated 20,000 customers experienced brief to extended power outages caused by gusty winds and fallen trees on the island’s transmission and distribution system.

Most outages occurred in the southern portion of Hawai‘i Island between Kurtistown and Volcano and in south Kona between Ocean View and Kealia, with a period of outages in the early morning in the Kona area from Captain Cook to Keahole.

Crews worked through the night and will continue with restoration efforts today. This morning, crews are working to restore power to about 7,000 customers from Kamaoa to Kealia, Orchid Isle to Volcano Village, as well as numerous scattered outages in lower Puna.

Customers in Orchid Isle, Royal Hawaiian Estates, and Wright Road in Volcano are asked to prepare for an extended outage due to numerous problem areas caused by winds and vegetation. Due to ongoing inclement weather conditions, crews cannot safely access parts of the transmission line serving this area to conduct damage assessments and make repairs.

Hawaiian Electric also reminds the community to stay at least 30 feet away from downed power lines. Downed power lines are energized and dangerous.

Outage updates are posted on the company’s Twitter account @HIElectricLight. To report an outage or downed power line, please call (808) 969-6666.