Hawaii Battles Widespread Power Outages as Storms Intensify
A severe storm system continues to lash Hawaii, leaving over 114,000 customers without power across Oahu, Maui County, and the Big Island as of March 14, 2026. Hawaiian Electric crews are working to restore service, having already brought power back to 186,000 customers today, but challenging conditions are slowing progress.
Oahu Faces Complex Repairs
Approximately 70,000 Oahu customers, representing 23% of the island’s total, are currently in the dark. Repairs to high-voltage lines that traverse the Koolau ridgeline are proving particularly hard, potentially requiring hours, days, or even longer due to the mountainous terrain. A helicopter assessment was used to evaluate the damage.
Maui County Grapples with Flooding and Road Closures
In Maui County, 15,700 customers (22%) remain without power, impacting areas Upcountry, South, Central, and East Maui. Flash flooding, downed trees, and road closures – including a significant sinkhole in South Maui – are hindering damage assessments and repair efforts. The weather intensified again this afternoon, further complicating the situation.
Big Island Sees Significant Outages, Restoration Underway
Hawaii Island is experiencing outages affecting 28,300 customers, or 31% of the total. The Puna area is the hardest hit. However, crews managed to restore power to approximately 47,200 customers across the island today.
Recurring Outages and Extended Restoration Times
Many customers are experiencing recurring outages due to falling trees and debris impacting power lines. Hawaiian Electric warns that some areas may remain without power overnight due to unsafe weather, flooding, or accessibility issues. Customers are urged to prepare for potential extended outages throughout the weekend.
Pro Tip: Regularly check the Hawaiian Electric outage map at hawaiianelectric.com and their mobile app for the latest updates on outages in your area.
The Increasing Challenge of Storm Resilience
These widespread outages highlight the growing need for increased grid resilience in Hawaii. The state’s unique geography and vulnerability to extreme weather events – including Kona lows and hurricanes – necessitate proactive measures to minimize the impact of storms on critical infrastructure.
Did you know? The “Kona low” is a type of low-pressure system that forms near Hawaii, often bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and large waves, especially during the winter months.
Preparing for Extended Outages
Customers are encouraged to review the Storm Restoration Process on the Hawaiian Electric website. This includes preparing emergency kits with essential supplies like water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and batteries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I report an outage?
A: You can report outages and view current outage information on the Hawaiian Electric outage map at hawaiianelectric.com or through their mobile app.
Q: What is Hawaiian Electric doing to restore power?
A: Crews and contractors are working as quickly and safely as possible to assess damage and restore power, prioritizing critical infrastructure and areas with the largest number of affected customers.
Q: Why is restoration taking so long?
A: Unsafe weather conditions, flooding, accessibility issues, and the complexity of repairs – particularly in mountainous terrain – are all contributing to extended restoration times.
Stay informed and prepared as the storm continues to impact the Hawaiian Islands. For the latest updates, visit Hawaiian Electric’s website and follow their social media channels.
Explore Further: Learn more about emergency preparedness on the State of Hawaii’s official website: Hawaii Emergency Management Agency.