Key moments
On March 14, 2026, Maui is grappling with significant power outages and flooding caused by a severe storm that began affecting the region on March 13. The Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO) reported that approximately 49,000 customers across Oahu and Maui experienced power outages, with around 9,300 customers in Maui County still without electricity as of the latest updates.
The storm, referred to as the Kona storm, has led to extensive flooding in Kīhei, where roads have become impassable due to water and mud. Eyewitness Daniel Baralt described the scene, stating, “It’s just total chaos,” as he recounted how the floodwaters overwhelmed the area. Another resident noted, “The water just played with it like a little toy boat,” highlighting the severity of the flooding.
As recovery efforts continue, a major transmission line was restored on March 14, allowing power to be returned to 29,000 customers on Oahu. However, the situation remains critical in Maui, where the local infrastructure has been heavily impacted. The flooding has prompted officials to issue a flood watch for Maui County, which is in effect until March 16, 2026, at 6:00 a.m. local time.
In addition to the power outages, the storm has caused widespread disruptions across the Hawaiian Islands, including flight cancellations and washed-out roads. Notably, the famous Road to Hana on Maui is closed to all but local traffic due to the adverse conditions. Aerial inspections of East Maui and Kula were scheduled to begin on March 14, 2026, weather permitting, to assess the damage and aid in recovery efforts.
As of March 14, 2026, at 9 p.m., a total of 86,000 customers remain without electricity statewide, with 13,000 of those on Oahu and 27,000 on Hawaii Island. The Hawaiian Electric Company is working diligently to restore power, but exact restoration times are not available until inspections are completed. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the cause of the outages and the estimated restoration times.
This storm follows a tragic incident in 2023, when a firefighter was swept into a storm drain during a flood in Kīhei and died from his injuries, underscoring the potential dangers of severe weather in the region. Local authorities are urging residents to exercise caution, particularly in flooded areas, with reminders such as, “When Flooded Turn Around Don’t Drown,” to prevent further tragedies.
The community’s resilience is being tested as they navigate the aftermath of this storm. Local officials and emergency services are coordinating efforts to provide assistance to those affected and to ensure safety as conditions continue to evolve.
