Hawai'i State News
Update: Kīlauea’s Episode 20 erupts with lava fountains of 500-plus feet, but lasts less than 5 hours
Latest episode of sustained geisers of molten rock in Halemaʻumaʻu Crater at the Big Island volcano’s summit was shortest since eruption began Dec. 23, 2024.
State: Make sure you’re covered before disaster strikes
Hawai‘i Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Insurance Division reminds island residents to review insurance policies in preparation for upcoming 2025 hurricane season, which begins June 1.
Travelers reminded to be REAL ID ready by May 7
The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation reminds domestic travelers that on May 7, 2025, you must have a REAL ID or acceptable alternative to avoid delays at the security checkpoints at the airport.
Hawaiʻi legislature passes biosecurity bill
The Hawaiʻi State Senate and House of Representatives announced Friday the passage of House Bill 427, aimed at strengthening the state’s biosecurity system to combat invasive species and protect the islands’ environment and agriculture.
Gov. Josh Green to sign “green fee” into law
The climate impact fee will increase taxes for travelers to help bolster disaster mitigation and sustainability projects in Hawaiʻi in the face of climate threats.
Mellon Foundation to stabilize state humanities councils with $15 millon in emergency funding
Hawaiʻi Council for the Humanities to receive a $250,000 grant amid a $65 million federal budget cut affecting state humanities councils nationwide.
Prince David Kawānanakoa, a respected figure in Hawai‘i’s ali‘i lineage, has passed away
Gov. Josh Green has ordered that the flags be flown at half-staff at all state offices and agencies effective immediately until sunset on Friday, May 9.
State passes a bill to expand free school meal access
The bill will help ALICE families, who earn too much to qualify for free meals at school, yet not enough to provide their children with consistent breakfast and lunch.
Two new warning sirens on Big Island part of monthly test set for 11:45 a.m. on Thursday
The May 1 siren test for Hawaiʻi will be coordinated with a test of the Live Audio Broadcast segment of the Emergency Alert System.
Hawaiʻi Pacific Export Council appoints new Executive Committee
Byron Goo, CEO of Tea Chest Hawaiʻi, will serve as chair of the nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting U.S. exports and international trade development.
State board approves three conservation grants for land acquisition on Big Island
The Hawaiʻi Board of Land and Natural Resources has approved $7 million for five grants to be paid out from the Land Conservation Fund.
New banana bread recipe featuring local ʻulu flour being served in Hawaiʻi public schools
Participating Hawaiʻi public schools served ʻulu banana bread for breakfast this month using local ʻulu flour supplied by the Hawaiʻi ʻUlu Cooperative.
State funding secured for Puna alternate route study
Big Island lawmakers once again secured $1.5 million to fund the Puna Alternate Study after funding lapsed last year.
State: Vog, sulfur dioxide still potential health hazards even while Kīlauea summit eruption paused
Health officials encourage the public to keep a close eye on Hawaiʻi air quality data as volcanic gas emissions remain elevated. Air quality can change quickly, depending on the amount of gas being released from the Big Island volcano, wind direction and other weather conditions.
‘It’s a way of living’: UH study connects spearfishing to wellness, culture, community
University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa researchers highlight in new study how practice deeply rooted in Hawaiian tradition promotes food security, physical activity, cultural identity and community well-being.
Scientists, cultural practitioners continue to learn while collaborating to save coral reefs
Kahaluʻu Bay will take a strategic pause as the sacred coral ecosystem undergoes a crucial spawning period from May 11-19, 2025, a collaborative initiative praised for reviving cauliflower coral populations devastated by climate change.
A study finds public health may be more supported by spearfishing, culturally significant traditions
A University of Hawaiʻi study reveals that integrating more traditional practices can be an effective way to support health and wellness across the islands.
Community shows ‘unwavering support’ for University of Hawaiʻi, donating more than $800K on Giving Day
Contributions, 36% more than last year, affirm the essential role all disciplines play in advancing knowledge, fostering creativity and building stronger bonds at all 10 of the university’s campuses statewide.
State: Plan ahead for busy Easter, Merrie Monarch travel
State Department of Transportation personnel at Hilo International Airport have worked with Transportation Security Administration staff in anticipation of the increased number of travelers heading to the Big Island for the 62nd annual Merrie Monarch Festival.
Second case of measles confirmed in Hawaiʻi
The case is an adult member of the household of the child on Oʻahu who was previously confirmed to be infected April 7 after both recently returned to the state from traveling internationally. The adult is no longer contagious and the child has since fully recovered. No new suspected measles cases have been reported as of April 17.
