Despite the Rain Drought Still in Effect

Storm system Barbara brought some much needed rain to Maui County, just not enough according to the Department of Water Supply (DWS).

The county still remains under a Stage 1 water shortage which was issued back in May. The good news is that water levels are closer to normal according to DWS officials.

“Things are not dire right now, thanks to a little help from Barbara,” said DWS Director Jeff Pearson. “Let’s see where things go over the next month or two.”

Pearson said Upcountry reservoir levels increased about 6.5 mg (millions of gallons) while demand dropped over 1 mgd (millions of gallons per day) from July 8 to 9. In particular the county’s “workhouse” for the upcountry water system  – the Piʻiholo Water Treatment Plant – is around 96 percent full with 48 mg.

For now the water restrictions remain in place, for Upcountry and parts of Central Maui. Click here for a list of areas where DWS urges conservation and suggests water saving tips.