West Hawaii News
Big Island ends extremely dry 2025 with a mostly dry December
Hilo Airport had its second-driest December in the past 35 years and its driest calendar year since 1949; however, some sites in West Hawai‘i saw above-average rainfall to end 2025 and throughout the year.
Kupuna engage with police, discuss crime during monthly meetings
The Hawaiʻi Police Department, in collaboration with the County of Hawaiʻi Parks and Recreation Elderly Services Division, is set to host its monthly Kūpuna Watch meeting on January 21, 2026, at Hale Hālāwai in Kona.
UPDATE: High surf advisory canceled for Big Island; still in effect for portions of other islands
The high surf advisory is extended until 6 p.m. Wednesday for north- and west-facing shores of Niʻihau, Kauaʻi, Oʻahu and Molokaʻi, and the north- facing shores of Maui.
Business Monday: 40 years after reforestation, Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary brings people back to nature
Fifteen acres once cleared for cattle grazing was replanted to bring back the forest, and now is used for education, tours, sound baths, yoga and day retreats.
772,288 reasons to celebrate: Visitors give back to Hawaiʻi, American Samoa national parks they love
Smaller counter donations programs in 2022 and 2023 became permanent at all Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association park store locations in March 2024; there were $100,000 in direct donations in just the last 3 months of 2025.
Maximum penalties lobbied against fisherman seen illegally longline fishing in waters off Kona Coast
Konane Zager, owner of the vessel Waiʻaka, will be fined the maximum penalty of slightly more than $10,000 and lose his commercial marine license for violation in May 2025.
5 motorists arrested for DUI during last days of 2025 on Big Island; year ends with total of 899
The total number of DUI arrests in 2025 decreased by 6.74% compared with the 964 recorded in 2024; fatal crashes and fatalities also decreased on island roadways last year.
8 lane closures scheduled during week of Jan. 10-16 on Big Island state roadways
Lane closure schedules can change at any time without notice. All projects are weather permitting.
State removing passing zones on nearly 15-mile portion of Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway in Kona
The change is aimed at enforcing safe driving habits and enhancing safety of motorists traveling between mile posts 78 and 92.6, in the vicinity of Waikōloa Beach Drive and Keāhole Airport Road.
HFS Federal Credit Union offers $60,000 in scholarships this year to Big Island students
HFS has helped since 2012 relieve some of the financial stress that comes with pursuing a college degree by awarding more than 130 scholarships to student members, totaling more than $355,000.
Police thank participants of Hawaiʻi Isle Police Activities League Cleanup and Fun Day in Hōnaunau
About 60 volunteers took part in the cleanup along Keala O Keawe Road, collecting about 15 bags of trash that resulted in a noticeable improvement to the area.
Top 10 things to do on Big Island for Jan. 9-15: Science comedy, speakeasy dinner show, art stroll and more
There is an eclectic emulsion of events coming next week around the Big Island, each promising an exciting escape from the everyday bustle. Check out our top 10 things to do on the Big Island now!
UPDATE: Flood advisory previously in effect for leeward portions of Big Island canceled
Radar showed at about 6:30 p.m. that heavy rain over the area diminished; flooding is no longer expected to pose a threat.
Kealakehe students represent Big Island as they advance to next round of international debate competition
A team of Kealakehe students are working to get to the top 8 teams of the written debate competition, which would allow them to debate in New York City and compete for $10,000 grand prize.
Kona Brewers Festival announces redesigned website, featured artist, expanded impact
The festival announced the key updates as momentum builds for the 31st annual event slated for March 14 at King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel in Kailua-Kona; tickets go on sale Jan. 10.
Progress now underway for project to create new $85,000 Kailua Bay Regatta Course
3 Kona canoe clubs lead construction effort and launch GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for the project.
Evolving kona low storm system could bring flooding, lightning to Hawaiʻi island
“Storms like this are unpredictable and potentially dangerous, so we urge the public to be prepared,” said Hawai‘i County Mayor Kimo Alameda. “The picture right now looks like the biggest risk is to Puna and Hilo communities, but that could shift to Ka‘ū or to Kona coast communities by later this weekend.”
8 lane closures scheduled during week of Jan. 3-9 on Big Island state roadways
Lane closure schedules can change at any time without notice. All projects are weather permitting.
More than $50K in scholarships available from for Hawaiʻi Rise Foundation for Big Island students
Local sponsors step forward each year to create scholarships that reflect their own values, journeys and hopes for the next generation — and 2026 marks the program’s most generous year yet.
Hawaiʻi Police Department promotes 23-year veteran Lt. William Derr to rank of captain
After years of improving relationships between police and the community as a whole, Lt. William Derr has been promoted to captain for the North Kohala District beginning today.
