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A large dead insect suspected to be a coconut rhinoceros beetle was found in a trap by staff from the Molokaʻi/Maui Invasive Species Committee (MoMISC) on Tuesday morning, April 7, 2026, near Kaunakakai Harbor. Based on photographs of the specimen, it is likely a coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) and is being sent to the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity (HDAB) Plant Pest Control Branch on Oʻahu for official species confirmation. If confirmed to be CRB, this will be the first detection of CRB on Molokaʻi.

Maui Emergency Management Agency, other County of Maui departments / agencies and the American Red Cross will proactively open shelters across Maui at 5 p.m. today, April 8, 2026, ahead of severe weather impacts. 

A single dead adult coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) was collected by the Maui Invasive Species Committee from a detection trap at Kahului Airport on the afternoon of April 1, 2026. No other CRB were detected in the other traps checked. Personnel from MISC and DAB are conducting surveys and deploying additional detection traps. Residents, businesses and landowner within a two-mile radius from Kahului Airport are asked to check coconut palms and other large palms for possible signs of CRB feeding damage.

A verdict has been reached in the trial of a Maui doctor. The jury deliberated about 8 hours before coming to a unanimous decision at around 2:18 p.m., finding the defendant guilty of attempted manslaughter based on severe mental or emotional disturbance. This is a lesser charge than the second degree attempted murder allegations brought against him.

As Hawaiʻi braces for another severe storm front while recovery efforts from devastating floods and consecutive kona low events continue, The Salvation Army Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division is bolstering efforts to support impacted communities. 

Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa in Kā‘anapali welcomes Raphael Malcolm as its new Director of Sales and Marketing.

County crews are gearing up for storm response as impacts from a low pressure system begin impacting the state. Two shelters on Maui will proactively open at 5 p.m., including locations in Kīhei, and Wailuku. Residents and visitors on Maui and Molokaʻi are urged to conserve water as a precaution during this severe weather event.

Seabury Hall’s signature Seabury Hall Summer Camp (formerly Summer at Seabury) program is launching a new, weekly format, with updated courses and camps, as well as expanded opportunities for students entering grades 1-12.

Precursory activity at Kīlauea on Hawaiʻi Island has paused, but an episodic fountaining eruption is forecast to occur sometime between today and April 15.  Fountaining episodes typically last less than 12 hours but ash can remain in the air longer depending on wind and weather.

Hawai’i airports brace for an influx of interisland passengers traveling to Hilo for the 63rd annual Merrie Monarch Festival, ongoing until April 11.

Running through May 3 in stores and online, the campaign takes place at all nine Walmart and Sam’s Club locations in Hawaiʻi, offering customers simple ways to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

Maui County departments presented budget proposals for fiscal year 2027 that prioritize rebuilding fire-damaged facilities in West Maui and expanding social services for the island’s aging population.

Golfing areas will be adjusted from April 13-16, 2026, while Waiehu Municipal Golf Course greens are aerated, according to the County of Maui Department of Parks and Recreation. The work is weather permitting.

A Flood Watch is in effect for the entire state through Friday afternoon. The National Weather Service reports that low pressure developing west of the islands will draw abundant moisture northward as it strengthens during the next couple of days. This will bring potential for heavy rain and thunderstorms leading to flash flooding over all Hawaiian islands.

As part of its ongoing wildfire safety strategy, Hawaiian Electric will begin this month using unmanned aircrafts, or drones, for aerial inspections of its electrical infrastructure in identified wildfire risk areas throughout Moloka‘i. Inspections will continue through May 2026. The drones play a critical role in the inspection process in Maui County, and on Hawai‘i Island and Oʻahu as the technology enables Hawaiian Electric to more quickly identify issues to prevent or lessen the risk of wildfires.

Two schools on Maui will be closed today, Wednesday, April 8. In East Maui, Hāna High & Elementary School is closed due to heavy rains and flooding conditions affecting safe access to the campus. In Wailuku, Henry Perrine Baldwin High School is also closed due to a lack of running water caused by issues related to a nearby construction […]

A winter and spring of record-setting rainfall in Hawaiʻi likely is linked to record-breaking heat on the U.S. West Coast, the National Weather Service said.

The inaugural season will culminate in the state championship, scheduled for May 1-2 at Hoʻokipa Beach Park on Maui’s north shore. A total of 174 student-athletes will qualify for the championship meet, representing the top surfers from across the islands.

*****Disclaimer/Graphic Content: Discretion is advised due to graphic and violent content.*****. The trial for a Maui doctor accused of trying to kill his wife while on a hike on O’ahu last year, nears completion as closing arguments wrapped, and jury deliberations began on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.  

The Maui community and extended ʻohana pause to honor and celebrate the life of Mercer “Chubby” Vicens, a respected community leader, dedicated volunteer, and beloved friend.