Hawaiʻi County to host earthquake informational meeting

Hawaiʻi County invites the Big Island community to an informational meeting regarding last week’s major magnitude-6.0 earthquake in South Kona.

Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense received more than 200 damage reports as of Wednesday, May 27, from properties impacted by the terrible temblor that struck shortly before 10 p.m. Friday, May 22, under the west flank of Mauna Loa about 8 miles south of Hōnaunau-Nāpōʻopoʻo at a depth of about 14 miles below sea level.

Damage reports include eight homes considered destroyed and another 85 properties that sustained major damage.

The meeting — scheduled for 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 28, at Sgt. Rodney J.T. Yano Memorial Hall, located at 82-6156 Māmalahoa Highway, in Captain Cook — is an opportunity for residents to hear updates from county officials about the quake’s aftermath and now ongoing recovery efforts.

Community members also will be able to connect with nonprofit organizations responding to needs of those impacted by the strongest earthquake since 2018 to strike the island.

“Following last week’s earthquake, our priority remains supporting our community and making sure residents can get back on their feet,” said Hawaiʻi County Mayor Kimo Alameda in an announcement about today’s scheduled meeting. “We encourage residents to join our team to share their needs and get connected to our nonprofit partners.”

Alameda on Wednesday signed an emergency proclamation covering North Kona, South Kona and Kaʻū. The proclamation allows the county to streamline its response and coordinate resources following the earthquake.

Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense, South Kona Community Emergency Response Team, Hawaiʻi County Department of Public Works, Hawaiʻi County Department of Water Supply and Hawaiʻi County Department of Parks and Recreation will represent the county during the meeting.

Nonprofit partners Vibrant Hawaiʻi and American Red Cross also will be represented.

Civil Defense continues to urge residents and businesses to report damage from the earthquake online or by calling the agency at 808-935-0031.

Damage reports assist the county with seeking state or federal disaster assistance, as well as identify priorities and focus resources if assistance becomes available.

Residents needing immediate help — such as food, clothing, debris removal or shelter — can complete a Request for Assistance through Vibrant Hawaiʻi or by calling Civil Defense at 808-935-0031.

Stay informed

Residents can receive emergency notifications when disaster or severe weather strike the island by signing up online for Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense alerts.