Genie Lift Hits Power Line in Kahului, Knocks Out Electricity

By Wendy Osher

A Genie Lift sparked a fire and a power outage when it came into contact with two electrical lines on Hobron Avenue this afternoon, electric company officials said.

An estimated 60 electrical customers lost power and several traffic lights were out of service following the incident, which was reported at around 2:24 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2014.

Maui Electric Company spokesperson Kauʻi Awai-Dickson said the fire burned down both power lines.

“Upon isolating the downed electrical lines, the circuit breaker was closed to restore power to the majority of customers at 2:48 p.m.,” said Awai-Dickson.

At around 4 p.m., an estimated 27 customers remained without power. Company officials said all customers were restored to power by 4:30 p.m.

Traffic lights were also temporarily out at: Hāna Highway/Hobron Avenue, Hāna Highway/Haleakalā Highway and Hāna Highway/Dairy Road.  Motorists were advised to drive with extra caution in the area.