Mandatory water restriction for areas in North Kona due to down wells

Hawai‘i County Department of Water Supply has implemented a mandatory 25% water restriction for areas in North Kona effective immediately.

The restriction needed due to the failure of Hōlualoa and Kalaoa wells on July 10 and Aug. 6. Affected areas include Mākālei, Kalaoa, Kona Palisades, Keāhole, Palamanui, Kohanaiki, Kailua-Kona, Kaloko, Kaloko Mauka, Hualālai, Honokōhau, Kealakehe, Keahuolū, Keōpū, Hōlualoa, Wai‘aha, Kahalu‘u and Keauhou.

Officials stress there is no threat to water quality. The Department of Water Supply didn’t say why the wells were down but noted the county approved expedited purchases and repairs in efforts to return North Kona wells to service.

The 25% water restriction will preserve adequate water supplies and pressure to meet the community’s drinking, cooking and hygiene needs, the county states. The Department of Water Supply says they will continue monitoring the water system and make necessary adjustments.

County officials are asking residents to water wisely and sparingly. Customers should refrain from irrigation, washing cars and other unnecessary water uses while the water restriction is in effect.

Easy ways to reduce water include taking short showers, fixing leaky toilets, and turning off the faucet while brushing teeth.

For more water conservation tips, visit www.hawaiidws.org, call 808-961-8050 during normal business hours or email dws@hawaiidws.org. Call 808-961-8790 to report after-hours emergencies.