KIHEI PROPANE LEAK FORCES EVACUATIONS

ALL-CLEAR: TRANSPORT COMPLETE, EVACUEES ALLOWED TO RETURN HOME (Updated by Wendy OSHER @ 1:46 p.m.)

Authorities have since completed the transport of a leaky propane gas tanker from Kihei to the Central Maui Baseyard. All roadways are now open and all evacuees have been allowed to return to their residences and businesses. County crews thank the public for their patience and cooperation.

Background information: The 3,000 gallon propane gas tanker began leaking at around 8:10 a.m. The leak was reported at the Halama Street/Waiohuli Street Intersection in Kihei. The incident resulted in the evacuation of at least two condominiums and 100 homes. No injuries were reported. Crews successfully escorted the tanker from Kihei to the Central Maui Baseyard at around 1:30 this afternoon. Again, all roadways are open and evacuees have been allowed to return to their homes.

TRANSPORT OF LEAKY PROPANE TRUCK IN PROGRESS: CLOSURES OF PIILANI & MOKULELE HIGHWAY(Updated by Wendy OSHER @ 1:20 p.m.)

Authorities have shut down a portion of the Mokulele and Piilani Highways as they attempt to transport a leaky propane gas tanker to the Central Maui Baseyard.  The escorted transport of the 3,000 gallon propane gas truck has forced the closure of the Mokulele Highway from Mehamea Loop to the Piilani Highway; and the closure of the Piilani Highway between Welekahao Road and the Mokulele Highway.  The transport began at around 1:20 this afternoon.  Authorities plan to keep the transit route closed for about an hour or less, but advise motorists to avoid the area until crews have issued an all clear.

HAZMAT INCIDENT FORCES EVACUATION OF 2 CONDOS & 100 HOMES

Hazardous Materials crews were called this morning to respond to a propane leak in the Kihei area of South Maui.  The leak originated from a tanker truck experiencing mechanical problems near the Halama and Waiohuli Street intersection at around 8:10 a.m.  Precautionary evacuations of residents within a half mile radius were conducted.  County Public Information Officer Mahina Martin said two condominiums with approximately 50 units each and about 100 homes were evacuated as crews worked to contain the leak.  Crews from both the Police and fire departments responded to the scene.  The American Red Cross is also coordinating relief efforts for evacuees in the area.  No injuries were reported.  (Updated 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, January 28, 2009)

KIHEI PROPANE LEAK FORCES EVACUATIONS

Crews are responding to a hazardous material leak in South Maui.  The leak originated from a propane tanker truck reported at around 8:45 this morning.  Precautionary evacuations are taking place for residents within a half mile radius of the leak.  The origin of the leak is near the intersection of Halama and Waiohuli Streets in Kihei.  Crews from both the Police and fire departments are on scene and are responding to the situation.  We will update you with further information as it becomes available.

p>(Posted by Wendy Osher:  9 a.m. Wednesday, January 28, 2009)