16 Airlifted from Kepaniwai at ʻĪao, Stranded by Rising River

ʻĪao rescue. (10.7.18) Photo courtesy: Joe Domrad

Sixteen people were rescued from ʻĪao Valley on Sunday afternoon, Oct. 7, 2018, when quick-rising water at the Wailuku River left the individuals stranded.

The incident was reported at 1:23 p.m. at Kepaniwai Park.

Maui Fire Captain Paul Haake said the group included 14 residents and two visitors.

Personnel from Hazmat 10 out of Kahului set up a landing zone in the parking lot while firefighters aboard the department’s Air 1 helicopter airlifted all individuals to safety.

No injuries were reported.

The incident was one of three rescues conducted by the department on Sunday afternoon. The others included the rescue of 9 people from the “Swinging Bridges” area of Waiheʻe Valley; and the rescue of an injured hiker at Nākālele in West Maui.

ʻĪao rescue. (10.7.18) Photo courtesy: Joe Domrad