Hāna Highway Preparations Underway Ahead of Olivia

PC: file Hawaiʻi DOT 8.23.18. Transportation crews cleared the Hāna Highway of storm debris, landslides and downed trees during Hurricane Lane, three weeks ago.

As the Tropical Storm Warning continues for Maui County, the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation is preparing for potential impacts to state routes on Maui and is focusing on pre-staging plans for Hāna Highway (Route 360) in East Maui.

The HDOT responded to over a dozen landslide and tree fall events on Hāna Highway between Aug. 23 and 28, 2018, and urges those unfamiliar with the route to avoid the area.

A variable message sign will be posted in the Twin Falls area (approximately Mile 2) to warn motorists of the potential for landslides. The sign may be removed if it cannot be anchored to avoid causing potential threats during high winds.

Other actions HDOT Highways Division is taking to prepare Hāna Highway for the potential effects of Tropical Storm Olivia are:

• Checking and clearing drainage inlets, catch basins and culverts.
• Pre-staging a loader and other equipment at Mile 6.
• Coordinating with private contractors with equipment currently staged in Hāna and Central Maui to mobilize their equipment as necessary to clear the highway.
• Putting crews on standby this afternoon and using Keʻanae Crew members living in Hāna and Keʻanae for possible response.
• Arranging for a landscape contractor to be on standby for potential tree and branch removal.

HDOT continues to coordinate with Federal, State, and County officials in preparation for Tropical Storm Olivia.