200,000 Gallons of Treated Wastewater Overflow at Lahaina Facility During Storm

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Approximately 200,000 gallons of partially treated wastewater overflowed from the Lahaina Wastewater Reclamation Facility in Maui during a heavy rainstorm on March 21, 2026. The overflow occurred when a manhole became surcharged due to excessive stormwater entering the sewer system, causing the partially treated wastewater to enter a storm drain system that led to the ocean.

Why it matters

Wastewater overflows can pose risks to public health and the environment, particularly in coastal areas where the wastewater can contaminate beaches and marine ecosystems. This incident highlights the challenges that wastewater treatment facilities face during extreme weather events and the need for robust infrastructure and emergency preparedness.

The details

The overflow consisted primarily of filter backwash water and treated wastewater that was not fully disinfected. The incident is estimated to have begun around 2 p.m. and stopped by 11 p.m. on March 21. Warning signs have been posted in the impacted area, and the Hawai'i State Department of Health has been notified.

• The overflow began around 2 p.m. on March 21, 2026.
• The overflow stopped by 11 p.m. on March 21, 2026.

What’s next

The County of Maui Department of Environmental Management will continue to monitor the situation and work with the Hawai'i State Department of Health to ensure the safety of the public and the environment.