UPDATE: Hawaiian Electric ends public safety power shutoff watch for parts of Big Island

This story was updated at 7:55 p.m. Saturday, May 23, 2026.

Hawaiian Electric ended its public safety power shutoff watch at about 7 p.m. Saturday, May 23, as hazardous weather conditions — including previously breezy winds — eased in areas of the Big Island at high exposure to wildfire risk.

Wind speeds and humidity levels in the electric utility’s service territories, including the Kawaihae and Waikōloa areas, are no longer in ranges that could lead to increased wildfire risk.

Hawaiian Electric did not need to proactively shut off power to customers since Thursday, May 21, when the utility implemented its public safety power shutoff watch for those areas of particular concern because of dry conditions and high winds forecast as part of a wind advisory.

The wind advisory, which forecasted gusts of up to 40 mph in those areas of the island under watch by Hawaiian Electric, was extended twice since it was first issued earlier this week, prolonging the utility’s need to monitor weather conditions.

Some occasionally gusty breezes were still expected throughout Saturday evening; however, National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu canceled the wind advisory early for north, south and southeast portions of the island as winds decreased to below advisory thresholds before it was set to expire at 6 p.m.

Areas of Puna, Kaʻū, North Kohala and South Kohala saw blustery sustained northeast winds of 15 to 25 mph while the wind advisory persisted.

Winds that strong are dangerous as they can tear off shingles, knock down tree branches, blow away tents and awnings and make it difficult to steer, especially for drivers of high-profile vehicles.

Together with dry conditions, they also can create an environment ripe for wildfires to spark.

Visit the Hawaiian Electric website or call Hawaiian Electric’s public safety power shutoff hotline toll-free at 1-844-483-8666 for additional information about the proactive shutoffs and maps of areas with high wildfire risk.

The utility also reminds the public that downed power lines should be considered as energized and dangerous. Stay at least 30 feet or more away from all power lines and warn others to do the same.

Call 9-1-1 for emergency assistance. Hawaiian Electric customers also can call the Hawaiʻi Island Trouble Line at 1-855-304-9191 with any other concerns or questions.