Kona Storm Causes Widespread Road Closures Across Maui

Multiple roads shut down due to flooding, debris, and safety concerns as severe weather hits the island.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 2:48am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A severe storm system has caused widespread road closures across Maui, with numerous highways and local roads shut down due to flooding, debris, and safety concerns. The public is strongly advised to avoid unnecessary travel, as emergency crews work to clear the roads and assess the integrity of bridges and other infrastructure.

Why it matters

The Kona storm is a significant weather event that is impacting transportation and mobility across Maui, potentially disrupting access to essential services, businesses, and communities. The road closures highlight the importance of emergency preparedness and the need for residents and visitors to heed safety warnings during severe weather.

The details

Multiple roads have been closed, including Honoapiʻilani Highway, Kahekili Highway, Hansen Road, and Holopuni Road, due to issues such as flooding, downed power lines, and debris. The National Park Service has also closed the Haleakalā National Park's summit and Kīpahulu districts. Authorities are urging the public to treat any malfunctioning traffic lights as four-way stops and to avoid driving through pooling or moving water.

  • The road closures began on Saturday, March 14, 2026 and are ongoing as of the latest updates.
  • As of 4:40 p.m. on March 14, 2026, Honoapiʻilani Highway remains closed from the Kuihelani Highway to the Olowalu dump due to flooding and debris.
  • As of 4:37 p.m. on March 14, 2026, Honoapiʻilani Highway is closed from Plantation Club Drive going into Honokohau and Kahakuloa areas due to large boulders.
  • As of 3:54 p.m. on March 14, 2026, Holopuni Road is closed at Pulehu Road due to flooding.
  • As of 2:34 p.m. on March 14, 2026, Honoapiʻilani Highway is closed in both directions from Kuihelani Highway to the Olowalu Dump due to flooding, swift water, and a state assessment of the Ukumehame bridge's integrity.

The players

Maui Emergency Management Agency (MEMA)

The agency responsible for coordinating emergency response and providing updates on the storm's impacts.

Maui Police Department

The local law enforcement agency assisting with road closures and public safety during the severe weather event.

National Park Service

The federal agency that has closed the Haleakalā National Park's summit and Kīpahulu districts due to the storm.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Authorities will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on road conditions and closures as the Kona storm system moves through the area. Residents and visitors are advised to check local news and government sources for the latest information before attempting any travel.

The takeaway

This severe weather event highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and heeding safety warnings during storms. The widespread road closures underscore the need for residents and visitors to plan ahead, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow the guidance of local authorities to ensure their safety and the safety of emergency responders.