West Hawai‘i News

2 new invasive coconut rhinoceros beetle breeding sites discovered in Kona

Treatment for these sites is underway, and detection surveys for other potential breeding sites are ongoing. Their discovery brings the total number of breeding sites for the invasive insect found on the Big Island to 3 since October 2023 when it was first detected here in Waikōloa.

Utility work to close section of Ahikawa Street in Kona

ʻĀhikawa Street between Hōlū Street and Kiekie Street will be closed from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Strong winds persist in driest areas of Big Island, continuing elevated wildfire danger

National Weather Service extended a wind advisory in effect for North Kohala and portions of South Kohala, North Kona, Hāmākua, Kaʻū and Puna, adding the summits of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, as ridge of high pressure to north of state will keep same locations parched and primed for fires under the right conditions, despite National Weather Service not expected to issue any watches or warnings.

Grab your fishing pole: 27th annual ‘Ohana Shoreline Fishing Tournament is this August

Hawai‘i County Parks and Recreation invites Big Island anglers to cast a few lines from Aug. 15-17 for a chance to win some great prizes and awards while enjoying their favorite pastime and family fun. 

Sparking prevention: Officials urge caution with wildfire risk heightened in Big Island areas under wind advisory

Hawai‘i County Civil Defense asks public in those locations to be careful with use of open flames, fire and hotwork activity as well as avoid parking vehicles on dry grass after travel.

Nāpōʻopoʻo home nearly a complete loss after being ravaged by weekend blaze

Hawai‘i Fire Department reports no one was injured in the single-story, 3-bedroom house fire that ignited sometime about 6 p.m. July 5 at 82-0954 Aka Ala St., forcing its husband-and-wife owners to evacuate.

Wind advisory in effect through Monday for north-northwest, south-southeast portions of Big Island

The National Weather Service Honolulu forecast office area forecast discussion from shortly before 4 a.m. today said fairly dry conditions with lower humidity levels coupled with those stronger winds also could produce elevated fire weather conditions over leeward areas late this morning into the afternoon.

‘KōCreate’ initiative launches in August with bold vision for how communities shape their futures

‘KōCreate: Designing Homegrown Futures’ will take island residents who particiapte on a 6-month journey, preparing them to lead change grounded in local strengths, lived experience and collective vision.

Scheduled Hawai‘i Island lane closures on state roadways for July 5-11

Lane closure schedules can change at any time without notice. All projects are weather permitting. Check to see if any of the planned closures will impact your commute during the next week.

West Hawai‘i keiki enjoy fun-filled DARE Day graduation event

More than 500 fifth- and sixth-grade students from Konawaena Middle, Waikōloa Elementary, Waimea Elementary, Kanu o ka ‘Āina Elementary School as well as Kohala Elementary and Intermediate schools celebrated with carnival games, interactive displays from several community organizations and more.

Safety alert: Hawaiian Electric readies Public Safety Power Shutoff Program as wildfire risk looms

As a last line of defense, Hawaiian Electric could implement a public safety power shutoff, proactively disconnecting power in high-risk areas to reduce the chance for igniting wildfires. the electric utility urges its customers to review emergency plans and take steps to protect their homes and businesses.

Girl Scouts of Hawai‘i launches statewide drive to reach every public elementary school

Girl Scouts of Hawaiʻi beginning in August will fund trained facilitators to lead troops in close geographic regions throughout the state, each serving about 10 troops and 150 girls. The approach expands on a successful model already in place at 25 Title I schools.

Top 10 things to do on Big Island for July 4-10: Plenty of family fun planned for 4th of July

The Big Island has you covered in abundance when it comes to festivities in observance of the patriotic holiday, from annual rodeo and horse races in Waimea to the main events — ‘rocket’s red glare’ and ‘bombs bursting in air’ during professional fireworks shows over Hilo Bay and Kailua Bay. Check out this week’s top 10 for all the details.

Annual Independence Day Parade and Extravaganza to light up Kailua-Kona on 4th of July

“This annual celebration brings our community together in the spirit of aloha and pride,” said Kailua Village Business Improvement District Executive Director Ross Wilson Jr. in an announcement about the festivities. “The business improvement district is proud to be one of the hosts of an event that honors our nation’s history while highlighting the vibrant culture of our island traditions.”

Ocean View man arrested, later released after allegedly shooting woman reportedly trying to break into his home

68-year-old Gordon McCormick was taken into custody on the charge of second-degree attempted murder following the incident because of the severity of the woman’s injuries. She remains in critical condition after being shot in the head.

Big Island invited to put on its red, white and blue, turn out for 4th of July festivities in Hilo and Kona

Hot Rides Expo and Hilo Bay Blast once again offer full day of events, including live music, food trucks, keiki activities and vintage, classic and futuristic vehicles rolling into bayfront, plus a fantastic fireworks show accompanied by live music. Meanwhile, the annual Independence Day Parade and Independence Day Extravaganza fireworks exhibition return to downton Kailua-Kona for everyone’s 4th of July evening enjoyment.

3 locations available where fireworks permits can be purchased for 4th of July celebrations

Permits can be purchased through 8 p.m. July 4 for $25 by those 18 years old and older at TNT Tents in Hilo, Kona and Keaʻau.

Transfer stations will be open July 4

However, Hawaiʻi County reports that scrap metal and appliance recycling will be unavailable on the holiday

Business Monday: New Kona tattoo artist from Hong Kong blends artistry with healing

Jayers Ko, a tattoo artist from Hong Kong now residing in Kona, specializes in areola-nipple tattoos to help breast cancer survivors and other surgery patients in the journey of personal healing and transformation.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving honors 3 Hawai‘i Police Department officers

Hilo Patrol Officer Lawrence Kobayashi, South Kohala Patrol Officer Landon Takenishi and Area II Traffic Enforcement Unit Sgt. Thomas Koyanagi were honored for their efforts and dedication in the fight against impaired driving to reduce injuries and deaths on Big Island roadways.
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