South Maui Intersection Cleared of Hazardous Liquid Spill

Portions of Keonekai and South Kīhei roads were closed for nearly two hours on Wednesday following a hazardous materials spill at the intersection, reported at around 10:43 a.m.

Maui fire officials say four one-gallon containers of Muriatic acid fell onto the road at the intersection, releasing two gallons of liquid. Two of the containers remained intact, according to department reports.

The cause of the spill is unknown; however fire officials say the containers likely fell from a vehicle.

According to department reports, one male individual reported respiratory irritation. The individual was evaluated by medics on scene and released, however he decided to seek further care via transport on a personally owned vehicle.

The incident resulted in the closure of the intersection, extending 150 feet in all directions until 12:37 p.m.

Responding units included Ladder 14 out of Wailea and Hazmat 10 from Kahului.

No evacuations were required, however crews cleared bystanders from the immediate area to allow for cleanup.

Fire officials say the material can be an irritant to the skin and eye and result in respiratory hazards. The material was neutralized and cleaned up with intact containers removed from the area with the assistance of crews from the County of Maui Public Works Department.