Wind advisory previously issued for portions of Big Island canceled

The wind advisory previously in effect for portions of the Big Island and elsewhere throughout the state is canceled. National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu reported today (Aug. 1) that winds have decreased below advisory threshold.

However, Hawaiian Electric continues to watch conditions in areas of Maui and the Big Island that are most at risk of wildfire, with public safety power shutoffs still possible.

Areas of concern include West Maui, Ōmaʻopio and the Pūlehu and Māʻalaea area in Central Maui, and South Kohala on Hawaiʻi Island.

“While we have not initiated any [public safety power shutoff] de-energizations … customers in communities with high exposure to wildfire risk should initiate their own emergency plans and prepare for the possibility of extended power outages,” the electric utility said in a 9 a.m. update Saturday.

Public safety power shutoff determinations can change at any time based on weather conditions.

Criteria for determining a shutoff are:

• Persistent drought conditions.
• Wind gusts 45 mph and higher.
• Relative humidity below 45%.

Hawaiian Electric analyzes data from weather stations and cameras near its infrastructure in high-risk areas with potential for fire spread. Wind gusts can be stronger in higher elevations compared with residential areas.

Public safety power shutoff process

• If power is shut off, it will remain off as long as hazardous weather conditions persist.
• When the weather improves, power lines must be inspected and any damage must be repaired before service can be restored. This can involve ground crews and aerial inspections using helicopters and drones.
• This process could result in extended outages lasting several hours, possibly even days depending on the location and extent of any damage.

How to stay informed

Hawaiian Electric will provide updates frequently through the news media and following mobile-friendly resources:

• Hawaiian Electric website: hawaiianelectric.com
• X: @HwnElectric; @hielectriclight
• Facebook: facebook.com/HawaiianElectric
• Mobile app: free download available on Apple App Store and Google Play stores.
• Customers can also sign up to receive emergency outage alerts from Hawaiian Electric.