DOW issues ‘essential needs only’ water notice for North Kohala

The Department of Water Supply has issued an “essential needs only” water notice for customers in North Kohala, effective immediately.

The emergency measure follows the unexpected failure of the Hāwī No. 2 well around midday on August 31, leaving the Hāwī No. 1 well as the sole operational source for the region, according to the press release.

Officials warn that without conservation, water tanks might not sustain enough supply, possibly causing low pressure or total outages for residents in the area.

Affected areas under the “essential needs only” water notice include: Hāwī to Hālaʻula, including Puakea Bay, Kaʻauhuhu Homesteads, ʻĀinakea Village Subdivision, and all customers along Akoni Pule Highway, Mill Road, and Maulili Road in North Kohala.

Residents are urged to limit water use to drinking, cooking, and hygiene only while the Department of Water Supply investigates the cause of the well failure.

Emergency procurement is in progress, and private water haulers are being hired to support the system. A public water tanker is now available at the intersection of Hāwī Road and Kohala Mountain Road.

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Residents can also reach the Department of Water Supply at 808.961.8050 during business hours or 808.961.8790 after hours.