Kihei Wants Long-Term Solutions To Chronic Flooding … The community has been prodding the county to take action on a report it commissioned more than a year ago that’s filled with cost-effective and environmentally friendly ideas.
The aftermath of a powerful Kona Low that pummeled Hawaii in early December continues to reverberate, particularly among Kihei residents on Maui’s south shore.
The storm unleashed heavy rainfall and strong winds across the islands prompting Gov. David Ige to declare a state of emergency. President Joe Biden approved a disaster declaration for Hawaii this month, ordering federal aid be made available to help communities recover from the storm damage, flooding and landslides of Dec. 5-10.
In Kihei, flash floods forced gulches to overflow with water, mud and debris, causing major damage. Kihei water quality specialist Robin Knox describes the fierce storm as a “game-changer.”
Before December, many people expressed concern about the impact of flooding on Kihei’s ocean environment and the tourism industry. But the impacts have multiplied, and people are grappling with how to protect their homes, livelihoods and their health, she said.
