Powerful Kona storm begins trek down island chain; severe weather to persist
A powerful and slow-moving kona low northwest of the islands will bring a prolonged period of hazardous weather to the state through the upcoming weekend. Expect periods of heavy rain, bringing the potential for flash flooding, strong kona winds, and strong to severe thunderstorms.
“A high-impact weather event continues to unfold across the Hawaiian Islands as a powerful kona low remains positioned northwest of the state. Radar imagery early this morning shows bands of showers lifting north across the state, with peak rainfall rates ranging between 1 and 2 inches. Several streams have already become elevated following the overnight rainfall, and flooding remains possible where heavier showers persist,” the National Weather Service reports.A Flood Watch is in effect for Maui County from 6 a.m. today until 6 p.m. on Saturday. Watches went into effect for Niʻihau, Kauaʻi and Oʻahu on Tuesday. A Flood Watch will go into effect on Hawaiʻi Island later today.A High Wind Watch is currently in effect until 6 p.m. on Saturday for Haleakalā on Maui and Big Island summits. The forecast calls for wind from the southwest blowing at 45-65 mph with gusts up to 85 mph possible. Winds this strong can make driving and walking dangerous. The winds can forcefully open doors and damage hinges or slam doors shut, possibly causing injuries.A High Wind Watch for the summits means that strong and potentially damaging winds in excess of 56 mph with frequent gusts over 66 mph are expected but not yet occurring. The public should take precautions now to protect property by tying down loose objects or moving them to a sheltered location.“While flash flooding remains a major concern, confidence is increasing that strong to severe thunderstorms may develop Wednesday into the weekend. Damaging winds will likely be the primary hazard with these storms, though large hail cannot be ruled out. In addition to the heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorm threat, strong and potentially damaging kona winds are possible late in the week and into the weekend,” according to the National Weather Service.
Circus Lolo tickets available now: A kamaʻāina circus at kamaʻāina prices
Low Gravity, a Maui nonprofit dedicated to inspiring joy and fulfillment through creative experiences, announced that tickets are officially on sale for the return of its whimsical production, Circus Lolo – a life-size, live-action cartoon circus parody.
Grand Wailea’s Kilolani Spa celebrates 2nd Anniversary with sound healing, skincare
The Kilolani Spa at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort is celebrating its second anniversary this month, honoring the Kilolani or ancient Hawaiian stargazers who looked to the skies to navigate their course.
UH study: Outrigger canoe paddling provides lifelong health and culture
The study found paddling connects people to their health, ancestors, environment and sense of purpose.
Hawaiʻi Energy distributes more than 100 energy-efficient appliances to Lānaʻi homes
Hawaiʻi Energy, the state’s energy conservation program, distributed 132 new energy-efficient refrigerators and freezers to Lānaʻi households today through its Appliance Trade-Up Program.
House Finance Committee approves state budget
The $10 billion budget prioritizes investments that support local families, strengthen essential public services, and build long-term resilience for Hawaiʻi’s communities. Funding is directed toward critical areas including health and human services, environmental stewardship, disaster preparedness, public safety, and education.
Hawaiian Electric 2025 renewable portfolio standard hits 37% amid spike in electricity use
Hawaiian Electric achieved a 37% consolidated renewable portfolio standard in 2025, marking progress toward the 2030 RPS milestone of 40% — even as the company’s electricity demand grew at the highest rate in over 20 years.
Travel Advisory issued for Hawaiʻi airports amid severe weather
A travel advisory has been issued for Hawaiʻi Airports as severe weather conditions persist statewide. The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation advises travelers to arrive at the airport at least three hours prior to their scheduled departure time for transpacific flights and at least 90 minutes prior to scheduled departure time for interisland flights.
Maui Matsuri Art Contest open for student entries
Maui County students in grades K-12 can now submit entries for the annual Maui Matsuri Art Contest for a chance to win cash prizes of up to $100.
Mental health crisis after 2023 Maui wildfires extends beyond burn zones
The 2023 Maui wildfires were linked to significantly higher levels of depression and anxiety among residents, with impacts extending beyond the burn zones and closely tied to housing and income disruption. That’s according to a new University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa study published March 11 in “JAMA Psychiatry.”
DCCA: review insurance policies before impacts of kona storm
As severe weather from a powerful Kona storm begins blanketing the state, the Hawaiʻi Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Insurance Division is encouraging residents to review their insurance policies and take steps now, that can make the recovery and insurance claims process easier after the storm passes.
UHMC offers free cybersecurity and vulnerability assessment clinic for small businesses
“Cybersecurity Risk Management and Vulnerability Assessments for Small Businesses” is a free Zoom meeting presented by the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College for sole proprietors and registered businesses in Hawai‘i. It will take place on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, 12–1 p.m. via Zoom. This is the third and final session in a series.
Hisako Film Lab launches first-ever Fast Kine Maui 4-Day Film Challenge
Hisako Film Lab, in collaboration with Fuzz Box Productions, hosts its first-ever Fast Kine Maui 4-Day Film Challenge, taking place March 25-29 on Maui.