Maui Stage 1 Water Shortage Re-Issued for Upcountry

The Department of Water Supply is re-issuing a Stage 1 water shortage in the Upcountry district of Maui due to reduced surface water flow and an ongoing dry weather forecast for the summer and fall.

The Stage 1 water shortage will be effective Tuesday, July 18, 2017. At Stage 1, the water rates remain the same.  A similar Stage 1 shortage was declared for the area on March 31, 2017, and was terminated a month later on May 1, 2017 following heavy rains.

Water shortage Declared for Upcountry Maui.

By law, the Director of Water Supply, with the approval of the Mayor, is authorized to declare a water shortage whenever the water supply becomes inadequate in any area in the County due to a period of drought, an infrastructure or mechanical malfunction, natural disaster, or other event causing a water shortage.

A Stage 1 water shortage exists if the Director determines that anticipated water demand in an area is projected to exceed available water supply by 1% to 15%.

Due to the declaration of a Stage 1 water shortage, all Upcountry water consumers are asked to conserve water and to avoid any unnecessary water use until further notice. Water conservation measures taken now could prevent the progression to a Stage 2 or 3 water shortage.

Some friendly tips on conserving water are as follows:

• Install low-flow fixtures by obtaining free low-flow shower heads, faucet aerators, toilet bags, and hose nozzles from the DWS Water Resources & Planning Division office. Visit the office at One Main Plaza, Suite 102, Wailuku (corner of Vineyard and Main Street, enter from the sidewalk) or call the Division at 463-3110.
• Kitchen tips: fix water leaks, wash a full load of dishes in the dishwasher, and keep a container of drinking water in the refrigerator.
• Laundry room tips: wash full loads of laundry, and use an Energy Star washing machine.
• Outdoor tips: water your lawn only when needed, check the weather and don’t water your lawn if it is going to rain, check the aim of your irrigation system so water is not wasted on sidewalks, and check your garden hose for leaks.
• Swimming pool tips: install a pool cover, turn down the thermostat, and plant a windbreak.

The Department of Water Supply thanks its customers for its cooperation and understanding.