Tsunami After Effects: Wastewater Overflows in Lahaina and Paukukalo

By Wendy Osher

[flashvideo file=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-z_vdGJtUyQ /]

Tsunami effects at Kahului Harbor, March 11, 2011. By Wendy Osher.

Two separate wastewater overflows were discovered at 7:30 this morning in Paukukalo and Napili on Maui.  The overflows occured during planned operational shutdowns of pump stations in preparation of the imminent tsunami impacts.

County officials say the shut-downs were necessary to limit long-term repairs and replacement of parts, should salt water enter mechanical components.

The County of Maui’s Department of Environmental Management reported a 40 gallon wastewater overflow from a manhole along WAiehu Beach Road in Paukukalo.  The overflow occured fronting the pump station with the flow entering a storm drain.

In Napili, wastewater flowed from a manhole on the Lower Honoapiilani Highway fronting the Napili #4 Pump Station.  The overflow continued down the street and into a drainage ditch. The volume of the spill was unknown, and mixed with the surging ocean.

Standing water was removed, the spill area was disinfected, and a sign was posted advising of the overflow at both locations. The Department of Health was also notified of both spills.  Bacteriological samples and analysis will be performed over the next several days.

*** Supporting information courtesy County of Maui.