Water Tanks Relocated to Support Kula Residents After Storm Damage

Potable water tanks moved from community center to local stores to assist areas affected by water main breaks.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 2:36am

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Due to water main breaks caused by a recent Kona storm, some areas of Kula, Hawaii are experiencing water outages and low pressure. To provide additional support, the potable water tanks (known as "water buffalos") that were previously stationed at the Von Tempsky Community Center have been relocated to Ching's Store and ʻUlupalakua Ranch Store. Crews are actively assessing the damage and working to complete repairs as quickly as possible.

Why it matters

Access to clean, reliable water is critical for the health and well-being of Kula residents, especially in the aftermath of a major storm that has disrupted the local water infrastructure. The relocation of these water tanks demonstrates the community's efforts to support affected areas and ensure residents have the resources they need during this time.

The details

The potable water tanks, commonly referred to as "water buffalos", were previously stationed at the Von Tempsky Community Center. Due to the water main breaks caused by the recent Kona storm, the tanks have been moved to Ching's Store, the intersection of Copp Road and Kula Highway, and the ʻUlupalakua Ranch Store and Grill to provide additional support in those areas experiencing outages and low water pressure.

  • The water main breaks occurred during the recent Kona storm.
  • The water tanks were relocated on March 18, 2026.

The players

Von Tempsky Community Center

Also known as the Kula Community Center, this is the location where the potable water tanks were previously stationed.

Ching's Store

One of the locations where the water tanks have been relocated to provide support to affected residents.

ʻUlupalakua Ranch Store and Grill

Another location where the water tanks have been relocated to provide support to affected residents.

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What’s next

Crews are actively assessing the damage and working to complete repairs to the water infrastructure as quickly and safely as possible.

The takeaway

The relocation of the water tanks demonstrates the community's efforts to support Kula residents affected by the water main breaks caused by the recent storm. Access to clean, reliable water is critical, and these temporary measures help ensure residents have the resources they need during this disruption.