DEPARTMENT OF WATER SUPPLY – HURRICANE LALA RECOVERY PLAN
DEPARTMENT OF WATER SUPPLY – HURRICANE LALA RECOVERY PLAN
The Hawaiʻi County Department of Water Supply (DWS) thanks its customers and the public for their patience and understanding as DWS continues its assessment and recovery efforts following the catastrophic rainfall and flooding caused by Hurricane Lala, which significantly damaged DWS water system infrastructure in the Nā‘ālehu–Wai’ōhinu area.
Current Status and Recovery Priorities
DWS has restored water service to most customers in the Nā‘ālehu–Wai’ōhinu water system. However, significant damage to waterlines and other infrastructure has left portions of the system without water. DWS is prioritizing efforts to restore service to the remaining affected customers in Wai’ōhinu Homestead and portions of the South Point Road service areas, representing approximately 60 accounts at this time.
Mountain House Spring Restoration – DWS’ Top Priority
Restoring Mountain House Spring to the water system is DWS’ top priority at this time. Mountain House Spring is a critical water source for the affected area, and returning this source to service is a key component of DWS’ overall recovery strategy.
DWS has secured a contractor to expedite restoration of the Mountain House Spring source and associated infrastructure.
Based on DWS’ preliminary assessment, the work will include significant repairs to infrastructure damaged by Hurricane Lala. Repairs are expected to include but not be limited to the following:
- Restoration of access roads necessary to reach and repair damaged water system infrastructure;
- Replacement and repair of damaged waterlines, including pipelines up to 12 inches in diameter; and
- Construction of necessary structures to support and elevate replacement waterlines above drainageways that were washed out by floodwaters.
Additional Wai’ōhinu Pipeline and Road Repairs
In addition to the Mountain House Spring restoration, DWS will address significant pipeline and road damage between the two highest-elevation Wai’ōhinu water tanks.
These repairs are an important part of restoring the integrity and reliability of the water system following the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Lala. DWS will coordinate this work with the Mountain House Spring restoration and other emergency repairs to maximize progress toward restoring reliable water service to all affected customers. Because of the extent of the damage, including washed-out roads, drainageways, and waterlines, some repairs will require substantial construction and coordination. DWS will provide additional information as the repair scope, scheduling, and contractor availability are confirmed.
Temporary Water Supply
While permanent repairs are underway, DWS is pursuing temporary measures to assist customers who remain without water service, including:
- Deployment of potable water tankers to the Wai’ōhinu Homestead and South Point Road areas for customers’ use; and
- Installation of temporary waterlines from the DWS Wai’ōhinu Homestead area to the Wai’ōhinu Houselots tank, where feasible.
Water Conservation
Customers in the affected water system are asked to conserve water during this emergency recovery period. Additional water-use restrictions may be implemented, as necessary, to help maintain available water supplies and system stability while emergency repairs are underway.
DWS appreciates the continued patience and cooperation of affected customers and will provide updates as significant recovery milestones are reached.
