Hawai‘i County water customers urged to prepare for possible service interruptions

Hawai‘i County water customers are urged to prepare for possible interruption to their electricity — and subsequently their water service — as the result from the major winter storm expected to bring heavy rains and high winds to the island.

The Department of Water Supply requires a significant amount of dependable electricity to deliver an adequate and continuous supply of safe drinking water to all customers.

Much of this electricity is supplied by Hawaiian Electric, which is directing its customers to prepare for possible power outages.

Water customers and others who depend on a continuous supply of water should prepare by setting aside drinking water ahead of time to meet essential needs during a prolonged power outage that disrupts water service.

The department also recommends having alternate emergency sources of potable water.

Other preparation tips include:

• Determine household water needs. Each person should have a minimum of 1 gallon of water per day for at least 14 days. Plan for pets and livestock, too.
• Store water safely. Use only clean, dedicated, food-grade containers. Wash containers thoroughly with dishwashing soap, sanitize using 1 teaspoon of mild liquid chlorine bleach per quart of water and then rinse thoroughly. Fill containers from the tap, leaving as little air as possible. Store in a cool, dark area. For more water storage tips, visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency website.
• Treat drinking water. It might be necessary for the Department of Water Supply to issue a boil water notice, instructing customers to boil their tap water for at least 1 minute, allow it to cool and store in a sterilized container. If the water from the tap appears discolored or appears suspicious, do not use it until it is treated. Click here for more information.
• Restrict water use. Use water only for essential drinking and sanitation needs. No lawn watering, car/boating washing, etc.
• Stay informed. Sign up for free Hawai‘i County Civil Defense alerts at Everbridge or through Hawai‘i County Civil Defense.

The Department of Water Supply will post system updates, availability of emergency supplies provided by mobile water wagons and other important information on its website, Facebook, Instagram and X.

Find more tips for disaster preparedness by visiting the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency website.