County opens temporary service site in Pukalani in response to power outages

The County of Maui will open Mayor Hannibal Tavares Community Center’s meeting room in Pukalani as a temporary service site from 4:30 to 10 p.m. today, Sept. 27, to support residents affected by ongoing power outages.

Hawaiian Electric (HECO) announced today that it activated its Public Safety Power Shutoff, or PSPS, program in Pukalani because of high winds, dry conditions and increased wildfire risk, affecting about 485 customers. They also reported that about 11,350 customers remain without power in West Maui, Haʻikū and Upcountry due to storm impacts. About 10,000 of those customers are in West Maui. HECO said those outages are not related to the PSPS.

Temporary service site to open in Pukalani:

A temporary service site will open at Hannibal Tavares Community Center, 91 Pukalani St., Pukalani, from 4:30 to 10 p.m. today, Sept. 27.

Temporary service sites support residents during events such as prolonged power outages, road closures or Public Safety Power Shutoffs. The site will provide charging stations for personal electronic devices and Starlink internet service. Residents should bring their own food, drinking water, medications, charging cables and other essential items. Pets are allowed but must be in crates.

South Maui temporary evacuation point closed:

The temporary evacuation point at South Maui Community Park and Gym in Kīhei closed at 3 p.m. today.

The site had no occupants as of this morning after reaching a high of 66 occupants during the response.

Lahaina emergency shelter remains open:

The emergency shelter at Lahaina Civic Center Gym remains open for residents affected by the Olowalu brush fire, power outages and other current impacts. The Lahaina shelter had 12 occupants as of 1 p.m. today, down from a high of 29.

Emergency shelters provide a safe place for residents displaced or affected by an emergency and offer basic amenities, including charging stations for personal electronic devices. Starlink internet service will also be available. Residents should bring their own bedding, food, drinking water, medications, charging cables and other essential items. Pets are allowed but must be in crates.

The County will continue to assess community needs and adjust services as conditions improve and power is restored. Residents should continue to monitor official County of Maui and Maui Emergency Management Agency updates for the latest information. For emergency information, visit mauicounty.gov/MEMA.