Maui Braces for Kona Storm Impacts

County officials provide updates on evacuations, shelters, and damage assessments as heavy rain and winds continue

Mar. 16, 2026 at 12:33am

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A prolonged kona storm has brought heavy rain, flash flooding, and high winds to Maui County, prompting evacuations, shelter openings, and road closures. The County of Maui has been closely monitoring the situation, with Mayor Richard Bissen signing an emergency proclamation to access state and federal assistance. Damage assessments are underway, and residents are urged to report any storm-related impacts online to help the county document the full extent of the damage.

Why it matters

Kona storms can cause significant damage and disruption to Maui County, with the potential for flooding, power outages, and infrastructure damage. The county's response, including evacuations, shelters, and damage assessments, is crucial to protecting public safety and supporting recovery efforts.

The details

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch and Wind Advisory for Maui County, with some areas experiencing flash flooding and high winds. An evacuation advisory was issued for the Wahikuli and Leialiʻi areas in Lahaina, but this has since been downgraded as pumping efforts have helped keep nearby retention basins at safe levels. Shelters have been opened across the county, with about 350 people utilizing them overnight on Saturday. The county is also working to assess damage and is urging residents and businesses to report any impacts online.

  • The National Weather Service in Honolulu canceled the High Wind Warning for Maui and Molokaʻi at 3 a.m. on Sunday, March 15.
  • A High Wind Warning remains in effect for Haleakalā Summit until 6 p.m. on Sunday, March 15.
  • A Wind Advisory is currently in effect for portions of Maui and Molokaʻi through 6 p.m. on Sunday, March 15.
  • A Flood Watch remains in effect through Sunday evening for Maui and Molokaʻi.
  • Mayor Richard Bissen signed an emergency proclamation on March 10 to access state and federal assistance.

The players

Richard Bissen

The Mayor of Maui County who signed an emergency proclamation to access state and federal assistance for the storm response.

Maui Emergency Management Agency (MEMA)

The agency responsible for coordinating the county's emergency response efforts, including opening shelters and assessing damage.

National Weather Service (NWS)

The federal agency that issued weather warnings and advisories for Maui County during the kona storm.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.