News
Segawa confirmed 6-3 as director of Hawaiʻi County’s Department of Environmental Management
Out of the nine appointments presented by the newly-elected Kimo Alameda to the council this month, Segawa was the only one that failed to secure the full support of the council.
Update: Big Island officially weathers major winter storm
Several Hawaiʻi County facilities remained closed Friday despite weather conditions improving. Fewer than 100 customers remained without power as of 6 p.m. Friday. A brown water advisory is in effect for the entire island because of stormwater runoff entering coastal waters.
Young Brothers modifies some sailing schedules because of inclement weather
The shipping company was, however, able to sail as scheduled Thursday from Honolulu to Kawaihae Harbor on the Big Island.
Volcano Watch: Announcing winners of 2025 Volcano Awareness Month Art & Poetry Contest
Participants were invited to submit a poem in haiku format or art recognizing Hawaiʻi’s volcanic landscapes in the following age divisions: elementary (grades K-5), middle school (grades 6-8), high school and adult. Nearly 60 entries were received, most from kamaʻāina.
Hawaiʻi County Council resolution would urge state to consider humane ways to deal with potential avian flu outbreak
Egg shortages and the fear of depopulation has local poultry farmers urging the State of Hawaiʻi to consult with them and develop an avian flu response plan as the virus spreads to chickens, cows and humans on the mainland.
High surf on Big Island’s north-facing shores prompts weather service advisory
Large surf of 14 to 18 feet is anticipated.
Update: Mayor signs emergency proclamation ahead of anticipated severe weather
“Crews are working hard to ensure roadways are clear and to restore power to traffic intersections,” said Hawaiʻi County Mayor Kimo Alameda. “We ask residents to remain off roadways, if possible, as weather conditions worsen and to stay connected to our emergency notifications.”
Update: Hawaiian Electric working to restore power as storm system continues
Hawaiian Electric urges customers to be prepared for possibility of extended outages. Several Hawaiʻi County and state facilities and parks closed because of inclement weather.
Hawai‘i County water customers urged to prepare for possible service interruptions
Department of Water Supply says to prepare by setting aside drinking water ahead of time to meet essential needs during a prolonged power outage that disrupts water service and having alternate emergency sources of potable water.
State preps airports, harbors and highways for impending major winter storm
Actions were taken by staff, personnel and crew at the facilities throughout the state to make sure they are ready for impacts. Airports will remain open unless there is damage to runway or terminal facilities.
UH-Mānoa building recognized as gold standard for sustainability
The Walter Dods, Jr. RISE Center is an integrated living and learning community advancing sustainability practices through the design, construction and operations.
Plant People Road Show travels to Kona for bi-annual sale of blooms this weekend
Potted plants from five Big Island mom and pop nurseries from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 1 at the Makaeo Pavilion at Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area.
Update: Waipiʻo Valley Road to be closed
Hawai‘i Police Department is closing the road in Hāmākua on the east side of the Big Island because of the flood watch that will be in effect for the island associated with the approaching major winter storm.
‘We expect an impactful event’: Flash flooding, damaging winds, severe storms possible during next couple of days
Unusually strong winter storm expected to pass just north of Kaua‘i, dragging cold front up through entire state, with tropical moisture and instability provided by strong southerly kona winds.
Update: Woman struck by vehicle on Highway 11 in Kurtistown dies from injuries
The 21-year-old was identified as Jahnya Serquina-Octubre of Mountain View. An autopsy was ordered to determine her exact cause of death, and police reclassified their investigation into the collision as a negligent homicide.
12 people arrested in Puna warrant sweep
Nine men and 3 women were arrested Jan. 21 on warrants for various offenses, ranging from contempt of court and failure to appear to violating conditions of release.
Keiki Caucus presents 2025 bill package, priorities to state legislators
Bills focus on taxes, education and health as long-term measures that give Hawaiʻi’s youth more future opportunity.
Almost two centuries of lava chemistry reveal Kīlauea, Mauna Loa share magma source
Authors of a new University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa study emphasize a long-term pattern of opposite eruptive behavior between the volcanoes also suggests a magmatic connection exists.
Well, at least this eruption of Kīlauea was longer than the last one
Kīlauea volcano’s Episode 7 of eruptive activity ends abrubtly 16 hours after it began, but inflation at the summit is already on the rise again, so it might not be long until an Episode 8 is underway.
Registration open for lifeguard certification course in Pāhoa
Hawaiʻi County is on the lookout for lifeguards and opened registration for a certification courseduring spring break in March.
