News
Three west side beaches close after high surf
Kahlauʻu Beach Park, Kohanaʻiki Beach Park and Mahukona Beach Park are closed for the day.
Scheduled Big Island lane closures for Jan. 19-24
In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, on Monday, there will be no Highway 130 morning contraflow or lane closures unless otherwise permitted. Lane closures can change at any time without notice. All projects are weather permitting.
Ka‘ū octogenarian artist Ed Kayton says he will keep creating until he kicks the bucket
On Jan. 24 and 25, longtime artist Ed Kayton will have his first solo exhibit in 25 years at Big Island Living, a teak, hardwood furniture and art gallery in Kona.
Update: High surf warning canceled for West Hawaiʻi
National Weather Service in Honolulu says surf heights have fallen below warning and advisory levels.
Kīlauea hits pause on eruption for fourth time
Lava within Halemaʻumaʻu Crater continues to slowly move. Crustal overturns are expected in the hours following the pause. Both vents might continue to glow, and degassing currently remains at a high level.
Honoring those who ‘inspire future generations’
U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono of Hawai‘i joins 21 other Senate Democrats, including fellow Hawai’i U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, introducing resolution celebrating women who serve in combat roles.
Keaukaha Homestead transitions to fresh leadership after centennial celebration
A transformative 100th year as Keaukaha Homestead inspires collaboration, celebration and advocacy for Native Hawaiians.
Who will have final say over Mauna Kea decisions? State or stewardship authority?
Senate Bill 6, introduced by Sen. Lorraine Inouye, states the Board of Land and Natural Resources shall supersede the Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority for all lands designated under the state conservation district.
Nurses unions, legislators, others join forces to ensure safe patient care standards in Hawai‘i
The coalition says there is an urgent need for reforms to improve patient care and strengthen the state’s health care system, and unlike many other states with mandated patient-to-nurse ratios, the islands lack these vital protections. Studies have shown every patient added to a nurse’s workload increases patient mortality rates by 7%.
Volcano Watch: Peering into a crystal ball — What tiny crystals can tell us about their trip through the magma chamber
When magma cools prior to eruption, crystals grow and develop chemical zones that record changes in the environment around them. Scientists study chemical differences in these zones, which can provide information about the magma, including its temperature, composition and more.
Police seek man suspected of taking items without permission from vehicle while owner used ATM
The alleged theft happened just before 8 p.m. Dec. 18, 2024, in a bank parking lot on Pauahi Street in Hilo. The unidentified man suspected in the incident fled toward Aupuni Street after being confronted by the vehicle’s owner and a bystander.
Top 10 things to do on Big Island for Jan. 16-22: KWXX Hoʻolauleʻa, volcano comedy, ‘Aloha Spirit Rising,’ Keiki Fun Run/Walk and more
If ever there was a week when “variety” best fit the top 10 things happening around the Big Island, this would be it. From an hour of volcano stand-up comedy to the return of the KWXX Hoʻolauleʻa, there definitely is something for everyone. Check em out today!
Hawaiʻi artists showcase showstopping woodwork in Waimea
Hawaiʻi Wood Guild displays the best of the best island artisans during its 39th annual Invitational Masters Show at Isaacs Art Center at Hawaiʻi Preparatory Academy.
Lawmakers lay out priorities on Opening Day of Hawai‘i State Legislature
Hawaiʻi state lawmakers in leadership laid out their priorities they hope to accomplish during the 2025 session that runs though May 2.
New tool helps Subaru researchers better understand formation, evolution of universe
Called the Prime Focus Spectrograph, it features about 2,400 prisms scattered across the extremely wide field of view available at the Subaru Telescope’s primary focus, allowing for simultaneous spectroscopic observation and dramatically enhancing its efficiency.
Central Fire Station personnel, equipment to temporarily relocate
The nearly 90-year-old building in downtown Hilo is the county’s oldest fire station and is in need of significant repair. Hawaiʻi County Department of Public Works Building Division crews will conduct repairs — to preserve the integrity of the building’s exterior — after fire department personnel relocate.
Update: High bacteria count notification also now canceled for Honoli‘i Cove north of Hilo
There now are no longer any active high bacteria count notifications for any East Hawai’i beaches or waters.
Staffing shortage again causes Kealakehe transfer station to close early
This was the second time in the past week the facility has closed early because of staffing issues with its contractor. It closed early Jan. 10 as well.
Update: Police identified man who died in apparent drowning at OTEC Beach in Kalaoa
Kona patrol officers continue their investigation.
Second Hale Nani escapee back in custody
Kawai Pomroy was arrested without incident at about 2:45 p.m. Tuesday by park rangers in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Meanwhile, Clyde Takeshi Talosaga Loa Jr. remains at large and should be considered armed and dangerous. Joseph Fernandez was apprehended Dec. 18, 2024.
