Hualālai Deepwell Failure Results in Water Restriction For Portions of North Kona

Effective immediately, the county Department of Water Supply is implementing a water restriction for customers in several areas of North Kona.

A mandatory 25% water restriction has been issued for water customers in Makalei, Kalaoa, Kona Palisades, Keāhole, Palamanui, Kohanaiki, Kaloko, Kaloko Mauka and Hualālai. The restriction is necessary because of the failure of the county’s Hualālai deepwell on Monday.

The 25% restriction will preserve adequate water supplies and pressure to meet the community’s needs. The Department of Water Supply will continue to monitor the system and make necessary adjustments. Customers will be kept up to date about any changes in water supplies.

“Water quality is not threatened by the loss of the well,” a press release from the department said Monday. “Customers’ water remains safe to consume and continues to meet or exceed federal drinking water regulations. Water filtration, boiling and other home purification practices are unnecessary.”

The purchase of replacement parts for the well has been fast-tracked to get it back online as soon as possible.

“Please use water wisely and sparingly,” the department’s press release said. “Customers should refrain from irrigation, washing cars and other unnecessary water uses while the water restriction is in effect. Taking short showers, hand washing dishes, fixing leaky toilets and turning off the faucet while brushing teeth are easy ways to reduce water use.”

Several other areas of North Kona also remain under a water conservation notice requesting customers to voluntarily reduce their water use by 10%. The areas under this notice are Kahalu‘u, Keauhou, Kailua-Kona, Honokōhau, Kealakehe, Keahuolū, Kēopū, Hōlualoa and Wai‘aha.

For more water conservation tips, click here, call 808-961-8050 or email [email protected]. Call 808-961-8790 to report after-hours emergencies.

“Mahalo for your cooperation and understanding while this temporary use restriction is in effect,” the department said in the press release.