Winds Knock Out Power Along Hana Highway

Maui police directing traffic at the Hana Highway, Dairy Road intersection. Photo by Madeline Ziecker.

By Wendy Osher

(Update: 2:26 p.m. 2/27/12)

Power was restored to all customers at around 1:40 p.m. after a downed tree knocked out power to parts of Kahului shortly before noon today.

Officials at Maui Electric Company thanked customers affected by the incident. The public is reminded to exercise caution on the roadways and to stay away from downed power lines if they should encounter such incidents.

Reports of downed lines or poles can be made to MECO’s trouble line immediately at 871-7777 or dial 911.

Power outages caused by high winds knocked out power to traffic lights at major intersections along the Hana Highway in Kahului. Photo by Madeline Ziecker.

(Posted: 1:31 a.m. 2/7/12)

Maui Electric Company has confirmed power outages affecting customers in Kahului and parts of Haiku to Hana on Maui.

“Shortly before noon today high winds knocked down a tree that brought down two electrical lines on Hana Highway near Kanaha Pond Sanctuary,” said MECO Spokesperson Kau’i Awai-Dickson in a statement this afternoon.

The incident, she said, resulted in a power outage that is currently affecting businesses on Hana Highway, parts of Kahului Industrial area and East Kamehameha Avenue.

Power outages in Kahului cause traffic delays for mid-day motorists. Photo by Madeline Ziecker.

MECO crews are on the scene conducting repairs as quickly and safely as possible.

Power is estimated to be restored by 2:30 p.m.

MECO officials thanked the public for their patience.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY:  Maui police also issued an advisory at 1:51 p.m., notifying motorists of a road closure on Haiku Road between Kuulei and Kauhikoa.  The section of road is closed to traffic due to a power issue. MECO crews are on scene.