There were no deaths or serious injuries reported as a result of the tsunami;

All airports are open and operating normally;
- Kaua‘i, O‘ahu and Moloka‘i are operating as usual

Lana‘i
Lana‘i ferry is operating using smaller vessels

Maui
Tours are up and running from Lahaina and Ma‘alaea Harbors
- Kahului Harbor is open

Hawai‘i, The Big Island

King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel is open (no damage to guest suites)
- Some boat charters have not resumed operations
- Hulihe‘e Palace is temporarily closed due to basement flooding.
- City of Refuge (Pu‘uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park) is closed indefinitely while National Park Service assesses damage
- Kohala Coat: Kona Village Resort is temporarily closed.

North Shore Waves Could Reach 35 Feet Today

1. EVENT: The National Weather Service in Honolulu has continued the HIGH SURF WARNING for NORTH FACING SHORES of MAUI and MOLOKAI in effect until 6:00 a.m. Wednesday.

A High Surf Warning indicates that dangerous battering waves will pound the shoreline. This will result in very dangerous swimming conditions, and deadly rip currents.

2. EFFECTS: Wave heights of 25 to 35 feet today along north and west facing shores.

The swell will continue through early Wednesday morning.

Forecast surf heights are estimates of the height of the face or front of waves.

A high tide of approximately 1.2 feet is expected between 11:28 a.m. and 12:46 p.m. this afternoon. The next high tide of approximately 2.5 feet is expected between 12:39 a.m. and 1:57 a.m. tomorrow morning.

3. PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES: BEACH GOERS ARE URGED TO STAY OUT OF THE WATER AND WELL AWAY FROM THE SHORE BREAK DUE TO THE HAZARDOUS WAVE ACTION AND STRONG RIP CURRENTS.

4. INFORMATION: Maui County Civil Defense will continue to monitor the situation. Please listen to your local radio and TV stations or NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts for any updates. NOAA Weather broadcasts can be reached by calling 1 866 944-5025. The Tsunami Warning Center web page can be found at www.prh.noaa.gov/ptwc.

Maui Civil Defense will continue to update the situation as necessary. Check Maui County website at www.mauicounty.gov for more information or the County Facebook and/or Twitter pages.

(Report Provided by Maui County Civil Defense)

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State Holiday Modifies Trash Pickup in Hana and on Moloka'i

WAILUKU, Maui, Hawaii -- The County of Maui’s Department of Environmental Management is announcing that residential refuse collection for Hana and Molokai residents will not be picked up on March 25, 2011 due to the Prince Kuhio Holiday. Normal Friday pick up for these areas will be changed to the following:

Hana – Friday refuse pickup will be picked up on Thursday March 24, 2011
Molokai – Friday refuse pick up will be picked up on Wednesday March 23, 2011

The islands of Maui and Lanai will have normal pick up on Friday with no change. If you have any questions, please call the following: Hana – 248-8254, Molokai 553-3221 and Maui 270-7452.

(Report Provided by the Maui County Office of Information)

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NEWS FLASH - March 15, 2011 7:35 a.m. HST

Governor's Damage Assessment Tour Coming Through Maui

KAILUA-KONA >> Gov. Neil Abercrombie is touring the Big Island and Maui today to assess the damage from Friday's tsunami.

The governor told people he'll do everything he can to get help to make repairs. He said the damage wasn't as bad as he thought it would be.

One of the major concerns in Kailua-Kona is that the asphalt on the cruise ship dock is uneven and might not be able to sustain the weight of tour buses picking up and dropping off cruise ship passengers.

A structural engineer is examining the pier it to see if it's sound and determine what kind of repairs are needed so cruise ships can return.

Norwegian Cruise Lines has canceled plans for the Pride of America to dock there next week.

(Report Provided by The Associated Press)

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UH, New Contractors Pursuing New Management of Maui Supercomputer

The University of Hawaii is joining a defense contractor and other organizations to pursue a new contract to manage and operate the Maui High Performance Computing Center.

The university has run the center for the past 10 years.

The school said Monday that it is working with Lockheed Martin, Pacific Defense Solutions, Referentia Systems Inc., and the Oak Ridge National Laboratory to pursue a contract to begin in October.

Lockheed Martin is a major defense contractor. It also manages four major Defense Department Supercomputing Resource Centers on the mainland.

Pacific Defense Solutions is a Maui-based small business. Referentia is a Honolulu-based company that provides cyber-security technology and solutions.

Oak Ridge National Laboratory, a U.S. Department of Energy laboratory, is the world's largest supercomputing center.

(Report Provided by The Associated Press)

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NEWS FLASH - March 14, 2011 5:30 p.m. HST

High Surf Warning Set for North Shores

1. EVENT: The National Weather Service in Honolulu has continued the HIGH SURF WARNING for NORTH FACING SHORES of MAUI and MOLOKAI in effect until 6:00 a.m. Wednesday.

A High Surf Warning indicates that dangerous battering waves will pound the shoreline. This will result in very dangerous swimming conditions, and deadly rip currents.

2. EFFECTS: Wave heights are expected to rise to 25 to 35 feet tonight with occasional sets to 40 feet on the outer reefs along north and west facing shores.

The new swell is expected to build tonight and continue through early Wednesday morning.

Forecast surf heights are estimates of the height of the face or front of waves.

A high tide of approximately 2.3 feet is expected between 12:08 a.m. and 1:26 a.m. tomorrow morning. The next high tide of approximately 1.2 feet is expected between 11:28 a.m. and 12:46 p.m. tomorrow afternoon.

3. PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES: BEACH GOERS ARE URGED TO STAY OUT OF THE WATER AND WELL AWAY FROM THE SHORE BREAK DUE TO THE HAZARDOUS WAVE ACTION AND STRONG RIP CURRENTS.

4. INFORMATION: Maui County Civil Defense will continue to monitor the situation. Please listen to your local radio and TV stations or NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts for any updates. NOAA Weather broadcasts can be reached by calling 1 866 944-5025. The Tsunami Warning Center web page can be found at www.prh.noaa.gov/ptwc.

Maui Civil Defense will continue to update the situation as necessary. Check Maui County website at www.mauicounty.gov for more information or the County Facebook and/or Twitter pages.

(Report Provided by Maui County Civil Defense)

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HTA Sets Steps to Ease Pain for Japanese Visitors

The Hawai'i Tourism Authority (HTA) is very concerned for the people of Japan and our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time. Our focus right now is on assisting the people of Japan and their country in their recovery efforts after this tragedy. Our community has truly come together - from the visitor industry, to small businesses, to our government officials. We are seeing, first-hand, the power of the Aloha spirit and how our people are what makes Hawai'i truly special.

As Hawai'i's response efforts have moved forward, we have received numerous requests for information on the situation. And we will issue updates as we receive them.

The following is an update as of March 14, 2011 (2:30 pm HST):

• A key priority is supporting our visitors from Japan in their efforts to return home safely. Our industry partners, including air carriers, tour operators, hotel operators and wholesalers are assisting travelers affected by flight delays or cancellations, or who wish to change their travel plans.

• All passengers displaced by the tsunami due to cancelled flights should be returning to Japan by tomorrow (Tuesday, March 15). To accommodate passengers, Delta Airlines, Japan Airlines and China Airlines have added additional seat capacity and flights.

• All major travel companies are working with their customers to accommodate their various inquiries.

• There was minimal impact to Hawai'i's statewide visitor infrastructure. The Island of Hawai'i was most affected, but as of today, most businesses are operating as usual. Please visit gohawaii.com/big-island and all island chapter websites for the latest updates.

• There have been some cancellations for travel to Hawai'i from Japan and HTA is continuing to monitor bookings to determine the level of impact.

• The Honolulu Festival was a great success over the past weekend. It was very heartwarming to see the people of Hawai'i coming together to express their support for the people of Japan.

• HTA has developed a 9-point plan in response to the earthquake and tsunami:

1. Convey our heartfelt aloha and support to the people of Japan
2. Make sure visitors from Japan who were stranded get home
3. Support visitor needs while they remain in Hawaii
4. Assess the impact on the Japan market
5. Develop and execute new plans
6. Maintain open communications with airlines, travel agents, wholesalers and other industry stakeholders
7. Coordinate with global marketing partners, including Hawai'i Tourism Japan in Tokyo
8. Coordinate with Governor Neal Abercrombie, Lieutenant Governor Brian Schatz, travel agencies, travel partners, Hawai'i's business leaders, community leaders and others on support efforts
9. Provide regular updates to industry partners and media

(Report Provided by the Hawai'i Tourism Authority)

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NEWS FLASH - March 14, 2011 3:55 p.m. HST

Governor Now Has Official Power To Appoint Education Board

Honolulu – Governor Neil Abercrombie today signed into law a bill that gives the governor more accountability over Hawai'i’s public education by establishing the process for an appointed Board of Education (BOE).

The bill signing ceremony for Act 5 took place this afternoon at Washington Place among lawmakers and invited guests, including current BOE members.

“Education is one of my highest priorities. The future of our children and state depends on the success of our public schools,” Governor Abercrombie said. “In first voting for an appointed Board of Education and then passing this measure in such an expeditious manner, the people of Hawai'i and the State Legislature cleared the way for a new era of leadership for our public school system.”

In November 2010, voters approved a Constitutional Amendment to switch from an elected board to an appointed one. SB 8 SD1 HD2 sets up the process for the Governor to appoint the nine members of the BOE – three from O'ahu, three at large, and one each from Hawai'i Island, Maui and Kauai. Governor Abercrombie will also select the chairperson. All members will need to be confirmed by the State Senate.

BOE members oversee the Department of Education (DOE), which has a $1.7 billion operational budget. The DOE is one of the state’s largest organizations with more employees than the state’s five largest private sector employers combined.

Governor Abercrombie is looking for talented and dedicated leaders committed to our children’s education and the future of Hawai'i. He is reviewing applications submitted through the Governor’s website and will appoint diverse individuals with varying skills, talent and experience.

“We continue to welcome every person interested in serving on the Board of Education to apply,” Governor Abercrombie said. “We need to move quickly and have an appointed Board of Education in place so we can move forward on bringing change to public education in Hawai'i.”

Governor Abercrombie has until April 1, 2011 to submit his nominees for boards and commissions to the Senate for confirmation this legislative session. He strongly encourages people interested in serving on the BOE and other boards to apply through his website: www.hawaii.gov/gov.

(Report Provided by the Office of Governor Neil Abercrombie)

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NEWS FLASH - March 14, 2011 3:50 p.m. HST

Utility Pole Down Closes Makawao Road

(Editor's Note: Repairs completed and road reopened at 4:40 p.m. today)

Maui Police report that a section of Ke'e Road in Makawao is closed. Hawaian Telcom crews are on the scene to replace a utility pole and replacing telephone wires on the pole.

Ke'e Road can still be accessed from the western direction from the intersection with Baldwin Avenue.

No word on the cause of the incident, nor if any injuries were incurred. Also, no estimated time of completion and service been issued.

(Report Provided by Hawaiian Telcom)

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NEWS FLASH - March 14, 2011 3:20 p.m. HST

Generosity 'Touches' Hawai'i Red Cross

Many businesses and community groups have stepped forward to raise much needed funds for disaster relief efforts for the Japan earthquake and Pacific Tsunami.

“We are very touched by the generosity of Hawaii’s businesses and groups who have come together to help victims of this terrible tragedy,” said Coralie Matayoshi, CEO of the American Red Cross, Hawaii State Chapter. “The people of Japan are suffering tremendously and what they need now is our donations to help them get back on their feet.”
Please go to www.redcross.org and donate to Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami. People can also text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

The Red Cross does NOT accept in-kind donations of goods because of the cost and logistical challenges in transporting, warehousing, sorting, and distributing the goods, and the fact that the goods might not be needed, appropriate, or culturally sensitive. Donating money that can be sent and spent in Japan will also help stimulate their devastated economy.

The Red Cross is a non-profit humanitarian organization which provides assistance to meet the immediate emergency needs of those affected by disasters. All Red Cross assistance to disaster victims is free. The Red Cross is not a government agency; it depends on public contributions to help others. Your gift supports the lifesaving mission of the American Red Cross in your community, across the country and around the world. To send a contribution, mail your check to:

American Red Cross
Hawaii State Chapter
4155 Diamond Head Road
Honolulu, HI 96816

(Report Provided by the Hawai'i Chapter of the American Red Cross)

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Maui County Civil Defense Seeking Damage Reports

WAILUKU, Maui, Hawaii -- Individuals and businesses are asked to report tsunami related damages to the Maui Civil Defense Agency. This information will ensure that the County of Maui has a complete picture of the scope of damage caused by the March 11 tsunami. Data collected will allow County officials to determine if our jurisdiction qualifies for any state or federal assistance, as well as to assist with flood plain and tsunami inundation zone mapping. MCDA will accept damage assessment surveys through Friday, March 18.

The following county parks are closed: Kanaha Beach Park in Kahului, Baldwin Park in Paia, and Kalepolepo Park in Kihei are closed till further notice.

Completion of a Damage Assessment survey does not constitute an application for assistance. Affected parties still need to file claims with their insurance companies.

The survey can be accessed from the home page of the County of Maui website: www.mauicounty.gov

For more information, contact the Maui Civil Defense Agency at 270-7285.

(Report Provided by the Maui County Office of Information)

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NEWS FLASH - March 14, 2011 2:20 p.m. HST

Hawai'i Tsunami Damage Estimated at $300 Million

The damage to government facilities, private businesses and residential property in Hawaii from Friday's tsunami is estimated at more than $300 million — a figure that's expected to climb, Gov. Neil Abercrombie's spokeswoman said today.

Abercrombie will visit damaged areas tomorrow, spokeswoman Donalyn Dela Cruz said.

Yesterday, Abercrombie signed a supplementary proclamation to expand the State of Disaster Proclamation he signed on Friday. The proclamation is the first step toward seeking federal recovery funds, Dela Cruz said. But the Federal Emergency Management Administration will not immediately get involved in relief, Abercombie said today.

"Unlike Hurricane Iniki, when we needed immediate assistance, this does not constitute FEMA from entering the situation," Dela Cruz said. "We are very fortunate to have escaped a catastrophe. If we had, FEMA would have been on the ground."

Lt. Gov. Brian Schatz will be in charge of overseeing efforts to ensure federal funds to help tsunami victims, including loans for businesses and residents through the Small Business Administration and other organizations.

Areas that suffered damage from the tsunami include Haleiwa and Keehi Lagoon on Oahu; Honokohau Harbor, Mildly, Kailua-Kona and Kealakekua on the Big Island; Kahului, Kihei and Spreckelsville on Maui; And Kamalo on Molokai.

Civil Defense teams plan to fly to Maui and Molokai today, where there are reports of 20 or so damaged homes in Wailuku, Keehi and Spreckelsville and another eight on Molokai, said Shelly Ichishita, state Civil Defense spokeswoman.

"The most dramatic (damage) is the Alii Drive area" on the Big Island, Ichishita said. "They found a lot of damage at the Kona Inn, a historic facility with an outdoor restaurant and complex of shops, and about 50 businesses that have been impacted. A lot of it is basically water damage and a lot of stores do not have electricity. One shop alone is reporting inventory losses of $50,000 and there might be structural damage, too."

The entire first floor of the King Kamehameha Hotel on Alii Drive, except for one shop, was damaged.

The sidewalk and portions of Alii Drive were damaged. Hawaii County's Department of Public Works will close both lanes of Alii Drive between Palani Road and Sarona Road today until 5 p.m. for repairs, Big Island police reported today.

There were also reports that Puuhonua O Honaunau, often referred to as the historic City of Refuge, had sensitive "cultural artifacts" uncovered by the tsunami and Puuhonua O Honaunau has been closed "for sensitivity reasons," Ichishita said.

She did not immediately know what kind of cultural artifacts were uncovered.

The Ahuena heiau near Waikaloa also had damage to rock formations and statues, Ichishita said.

The Kona Village and Resort, which has 125 hale for guests, had some knocked from their foundations and at least 20 were inundated with water, said CEO Pat Fitzgerald.

Some of the hale are 30 yards from shore but the tsunami reached as far as 75 yards inland at a height of seven to eight feet, Fitzgerald said.

"The estimates are $300,000 to $400,000 to repair just one of the hales," Ichishita said.

Kelly Edwards, whose two-story, 3,200-square-foot home continues to float in Kealakekua Bay, said a boom is being shipped to the Big Island from Oahu tomorrow to surround the remains of her five-bedroom, five-bath house that was swept out into the bay by the tsunami.

She had no estimate of what it will cost to surround her house and eventually scuttle or salvage it.

"I have no idea of the cost," she said from her home in Salinas, Calif. "Right now the focus is on preserving the bay."

Reach Dan Nakaso at dnakaso@staradvertiser.com.

(Report Provided by The Honolulu Star-Advertiser)

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NEWS FLASH - March 14, 2011 1:30 p.m. HST

DOH: Radiation Output from Japan Not A Threat to Hawai'i

HONOLULU – The Hawaii State Department of Health (DOH) has not detected any elevated radiation readings, and air samples remain at ambient or normal background levels following a small release of radiation Saturday at a nuclear reactor facility in Japan. The release of radiation occurred from two nuclear reactors in Japan that were damaged in Friday’s earthquake and tsunami. The DOH Indoor and Radiological Health Branch (IRHB) is closely monitoring information on the radiation release, and with the current size of the release and the distance from Hawaii, no public health risk to the state is expected.

The DOH in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has a system in place for ambient monitoring for radioactive dust. The system (RADNET) looks at real-time data as well as particulate sampling (from monitors located on the islands of Oahu and Hawaii) which are analyzed by the DOH and at a laboratory in Alabama. At this time, the department has no indication of any readings above normal background levels and does not expect any “spikes” due to the limited amount of material released and the current environmental conditions.

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) released a statement on March 13 stating, “All the available information indicates weather conditions have taken the small releases from the Fukushima reactors out to sea away from the population. Given the thousands of miles between the two countries, Hawaii, Alaska, the U.S. Territories and the U.S. West Coast are not expected to experience any harmful levels of radioactivity.” A news release from the Japan Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency (NISA) indicated that the amount of radioactive material released from the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Station was relatively small. However, should the situation change, the department is making preparations by coordinating with national and statewide partners and ensuring medical stockpiles are readily available.

The department’s Radiological Health staff is currently working with other state and federal entities on radioactive plume modeling. All models are based on real-time atmospheric conditions and indicate that the release is headed away from the Hawaiian Islands.

(Report Provided by the State of Hawai'i, Department of Health)

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NEWS FLASH - March 14, 2011 10:40 a.m. HST

Hawai'i Joins 7 Other States in Wellness Campaign

WAILUKU, Maui, Hawaii – Maui County Office on Aging in conjunction with The National Council on Aging (NCOA) today announced the debut of Better Choices, Better Health™, the online version of the internationally recognized Chronic Disease Self Management Program (CDSMP), will be available free to people with chronic health conditions in seven states—California, Hawaii, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Oregon.

Those interested people can register at SelfManage.org. Spaces, however, are limited and availability is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Better Choices, Better Health helps people with arthritis, asthma, diabetes, lung disease, heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis and many other chronic conditions to manage their symptoms and take control of their health. Developed and tested at the Stanford University Patient Education Center, the workshop is offered exclusively through a license from NCOA. This seven-state pilot effort is supported with funding from The Atlantic Philanthropies.

“Nearly half of all adults live with one or more chronic health conditions, and many struggle to find ways to manage their condition,” said Deborah Arendale, Maui County’s Executive on Aging. “Better Choices, Better Health” meets people where they increasingly are—online. The workshop represents a convenient way for people to develop the confidence and skills they need to cope with their illnesses. It provides a way for them to help others, while they help themselves.”

An Evidence-Based, Six-Week Workshop—Available Online

Better Choices, Better Health helps participants reduce their pain and anxiety and manage a wide range of symptoms and conditions. Led by trained instructors, participants together address topics such as stress reduction, dealing with distressful emotions, planning for the future, locating and using community resources, building communication skills, and asking for help.

Better Choices, Better Health participants can log onto the free sessions from any computer with an internet connection, including dial-up. Sessions are posted on a secure Web site each week for six weeks. There are no set times for workshop sessions; participants log on remotely at their convenience to complete exercises, read posted material, and interact with others. The workshops can be particularly useful for those individuals without access to transportation or who prefer the anonymity of a virtual group.

In addition to the online Better Choices, Better Health, in-person community-based CDSMP workshops are provided locally around the country. Through funding from the U.S. Administration on Aging, these offerings are currently promoted to thousands of people in 45 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Information on the community-based CDSMP program can be obtained by emailing CDSMP@ncoa.org.

*************
About the Maui County Office on Aging
The Maui County Office on Aging (MCOA) provides services to the islands of Maui, Molokai and Lanai. The emphasis on Aging in Place underlies all activities in which MCOA engages. Every service, program, or product endorsed or implemented by MCOA and contracted providers serves to assist Maui County’s seniors to lead independent, fulfilled, and dignified lives in their own homes and own communities for as long as possible and appropriate.

About the National Council on Aging
The National Council on Aging (NCOA) is a nonprofit service and advocacy organization headquartered in Washington, DC. NCOA is a national voice for older Americans—especially those who are vulnerable and disadvantaged—and the community organizations that serve them. It brings together nonprofit organizations, businesses, and government to develop creative solutions that improve the lives of all older adults. NCOA works with thousands of organizations across the country to help seniors find jobs and benefits, improve their health, live independently and remain active in their communities. For more information, please visit www.ncoa.org.

About the Stanford Patient Education Center
The Stanford Patient Education Research Center is part of the Department of Medicine at the Stanford University School of Medicine, located in Palo Alto, CA. For nearly three decades, the Center has developed, tested, and evaluated self-management programs for English and Spanish speakers with chronic health problems. All of our programs are designed to help people gain self-confidence in their ability to control their symptoms and how their health problems affect their lives.

(Report Provided by the Maui County Office of Information)

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NEWS FLASH - March 14, 2011 10:10 a.m. HST

County Civil Defense Asking for Citizen Reports

WAILUKU, Maui, Hawaii -- Individuals and businesses are asked to report tsunami related damages to the Maui Civil Defense Agency. This information will ensure that the County of Maui has a complete picture of the scope of damage caused by the March 11 tsunami. Data collected will allow County officials to determine if our jurisdiction qualifies for any state or federal assistance, as well as to assist with flood plain and tsunami inundation zone mapping. MCDA will accept damage assessment surveys through Friday, March 18.

Completion of a Damage Assessment survey does not constitute an application for assistance. Affected parties still need to file claims with their insurance companies.

The survey can be accessed from the home page of the County of Maui website: www.mauicounty.gov

For more information, contact the Maui Civil Defense Agency at 270-7285.

(Report Provided by the Maui County Office of Information)

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NEWS FLASH - March 14, 2011 7:30 a.m. HST

WW II Internment Camps on Maui Explored

WAILUKU >> The National Park Service has identified two sites in Maui as former Japanese internment camps.

Park officials say the Kalana O Maui building in Wailuku and the Horizons Academy of Maui in Haiku lie on areas that held Japanese Americans during World War II. The two sites are among 13 statewide to be part of a resource study.

A Park Service spokeswoman says in Maui, there is little left from the camps. But officials are holding a series of meetings across Maui County to seek the community's input on how to preserve their history.

Congress recently instructed the National Park Service to carry out the study. Internment camp sites have been found on all six Hawaiian islands.

(Report Provided by The Associated Press)

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NEWS FLASH - March 14, 2011 6:50 a.m. HST

Fourth Night After Devastation in Japan Getting Colder

TAKAJO, Japan >> A tide of bodies washed up along Japan's coastline, crematoriums were overwhelmed and rescue workers ran out of body bags as the nation faced the grim reality of its mounting humanitarian, economic and nuclear crisis Monday after a calamitous tsunami.

Millions of people were facing a fourth night without water, food or heating in near-freezing temperatures in the devastated northeast. Meanwhile, a third reactor at a nuclear power plant lost its cooling capacity and the fuel rods at another were at least briefly fully exposed, raising fears of a meltdown. The stock market plunged over the likelihood of huge losses by Japanese industries including big names such as Toyota and Honda.

A Japanese police official said 1,000 washed up bodies were found scattered Monday across the coastline of Miyagi prefecture. The official declined to be named, citing department policy.

The discovery raised the official death toll to about 2,800, but the Miyagi police chief has said that more than 10,000 people are estimated to have died in his province alone, which has a population of 2.3 million.

In one town in a neighboring prefecture, the crematorium was unable to handle the crush of bodies being brought in for funerals.

"We have already begun cremations, but we can only handle 18 bodies a day. We are overwhelmed and are asking other cites to help us deal with bodies. We only have one crematorium in town," Katsuhiko Abe, an official in Soma, told The Associated Press.

In Japan, most people opt to cremate their dead, a process that, like burial, requires permission first from local authorities. But the government took the rare step Monday of waiving that requirement to speed up funerals, said Health Ministry official Yukio Okuda.

"The current situation is so extraordinary, and it is very likely that crematoriums are running beyond capacity," said Okuda. "This is an emergency measure. We want to help quake-hit people as much as we can."

Friday's double tragedy has caused unimaginable deprivation for people of this industrialized country — Asia's richest — which hasn't seen such hardship since World War II. In many areas there is no running water, no power and four- to five-hour waits for gasoline. People are suppressing hunger with instant noodles or rice balls while dealing with the loss of loved ones and homes.

"People are surviving on little food and water. Things are simply not coming," said Hajime Sato, a government official in Iwate prefecture, one of the three hardest hit.

He said authorities were receiving just 10 percent of the food and other supplies they need. Body bags and coffins were running so short that the government may turn to foreign funeral homes for help, he said.

"We have requested funeral homes across the nation to send us many body bags and coffins. But we simply don't have enough," he told the AP. "We just did not expect such a thing to happen. It's just overwhelming."

The pulverized coast has been hit by hundreds of aftershocks since Friday, the latest one a 6.2 magnitude quake that was followed by a new tsunami scare Monday. As sirens wailed, soldiers abandoned their search operations and told residents of the devastated shoreline in Soma, the worst hit town in Fukushima prefecture, to run to higher ground.

They barked out orders: "Find high ground! Get out of here!" Several soldiers were seen leading an old woman up a muddy hillside. The warning turned out to be a false alarm.

Search parties arrived in Soma for the first time since Friday to dig out bodies. Ambulances stood by and body bags were laid out in an area cleared of debris, as firefighters used hand picks and chain saws to clear an indescribable jumble of broken timber, plastic sheets, roofs, sludge, twisted cars, tangled powerlines and household goods.

Helicopters buzzed overhead, surveying the destruction that spanned the horizon. Ships were flipped over near roads, a half-mile inland. Officials said one-third of the city of 38,000 people was flooded and thousands were missing.

In addition to the more than 2,800 people who have been confirmed dead, more than 1,400 were missing. Another 1,900 were injured.

Japanese officials have refused to speculate on how high the death toll could rise, but experts who dealt with the 2004 Asian tsunami offered a dire outlook.

"It's a miracle really, if it turns out to be less than 10,000 (dead)," said Hery Harjono, a senior geologist with the Indonesian Science Institute, who was closely involved with the aftermath of earlier disaster that killed 230,000 people — of which only 184,000 bodies were found.

He drew parallels between the two disasters — notably that many bodies in Japan may have been sucked out to sea or remain trapped beneath rubble as they did in Indonesia's hardest-hit Aceh province. But he also stressed that Japan's infrastructure, high-level of preparedness and city planning to keep houses away from the shore could mitigate their human losses.

The Japanese government has sent 100,000 troops to lead the aid effort. It has sent 120,000 blankets, 120,000 bottles of water and 29,000 gallons of gasoline plus food to the affected areas. However, electricity will take days to restore.

According to public broadcaster NHK, some 430,000 people are living in emergency shelters or with relatives. Another 24,000 people are stranded, it said.

One reason for the loss of power is the damage several nuclear reactors in the area. At one plant, Fukushima Dai-ichi, three reactors have lost the ability to cool down, the latest on Monday. Explosions have destroyed the containment buildings of the other two reactors. Fuel rods at the third were fully exposed, at least briefly, on Monday.

Operators were dumping sea water into all three reactors in a last-ditch attempt to cool their superheated containers that faced possible meltdown. If that happens, they could release radioactive material in the air.

But Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yukio Edano said the inner containment vessel holding the nuclear fuel rods at the reactor that experienced an explosion Monday was intact, allaying some fears of the risk to the environment. The containment vessel of the first reactor is also safe, according to officials.

Still, people within a 12-mile radius were ordered to stay inside homes following the blast. AP journalists felt Monday's explosion 25 miles away.

Military personnel on helicopters returning to ships with the U.S. 7th Fleet registered low-level of radioactive contamination Monday, but were cleared after a scrub-down. As a precaution, the ship shifted to a different area off the coast.

More than 180,000 people have evacuated the area around the plants in recent days.

Also, Tokyo Electric Power held off on imposing rolling blackouts planned for Monday, but called for people to try to limit electricity use.

Edano said the utility was still prepared to go ahead with power rationing if necessary. The decision reflected an understanding of the profound inconveniences many would experience.

Many regional train lines were suspended or operating on a limited schedule to help reduce the power load.

Japan's central bank injected 15 trillion yen ($184 billion) into money markets Monday to stem worries about the world's third-largest economy.

Stocks fell Monday on the first business day after the disasters. The benchmark Nikkei 225 stock average shed nearly 634 points, or 6.2 percent, to 9,620.49, extending losses from Friday. Escalating concerns over the fallout of the disaster triggered a plunge that hit all sectors. The broader Topix index lost 7.5 percent.

Japan's economy has been ailing for 20 years, barely managing to eke out weak growth between slowdowns. It is saddled by a massive public debt that, at 200 percent of gross domestic product, is the biggest among industrialized nations.

Preliminary estimates put repair costs from the earthquake and tsunami in the tens of billions of dollars — a huge blow for an already fragile economy that lost its place as the world's No. 2 to China last year.

(Report Provided by The Associated Press)

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NEWS FLASH - March 13, 2011 7:20 a.m. HST

Strike Resolution Brings 'Business As Usual' Back to MECO

With the recent ratification of the contract for its union employees, all Hawaiian Electric, Maui Electric and Hawaii Electric Light Company normal customer service hours and operations will resume as of Monday, March 14, 2011. Maui Electric's Kahului office hours are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

(Report Provided by Maui Electric Company)

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NEWS FLASH - March 12, 2011 2:45 p.m. HST New Pictures Provide Perspective on Tsunami's Strength As Maui - all of Hawai'i, the western U.S. and - ultimately Japan - recoil and regroup after the events of Thursday evening and Friday morning, people continue to express amazement at the tragedy and devastation that happened. Also, survivors continue to express grief and support for those who lost. Some lost a little, some lost everything. Damage on Maui was comparatively minor to that on the Big Island - but still there was loss. The pictures below were provided by Maui TV News viewer - and avid diver - Roy Bendell. His curiosity led him across the island yesterday and he provided these images. Our deepest appreciation to him for allowing us to post these dramatic pictures.
MAA'ALAEA SINKER - Two boats were reported sunk and one overturned by the tsunami surge in the early hours of Friday morning. WATERLINE - Note the high water mark on the gate from waves that surged through the Halama Street end of Kalama Park in Kihei. NO PICNIC - Brackish, muddy water will take a while to recede under the palm trees in one of the picnic areas of Kalama Park in Kihei.
LAHAINA SINKER - This boat couldn't escape the power of Friday morning's series of tsunami waves. Residents say they saw a wave up to nine feet high hit the harbor but that report was not confirmed.	"LEMONADE" - The owner of this trimaran that flipped from the tsunami surge said he'd never had an easier opportunity to scrape the bottom of his boat. So, "...when life gives you lemons..."
LAKE KALAMA - Picturesque but ominous, this reflective scene at Kalama Park in Kihei was repeated at shoreline parks around Maui County.	SANCTUARY - Friday morning first light showed that the Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary headquarters in Kihei withstood the brunt of the tsunami - but some cleanup lay ahead.
INS AND OUT - 1 - The tsunami surge rolled in and out through much of Friday. Sand and reefs were lain dry dozens of times at Kalama Park.	INS AND OUTS - 2 - Almost as quickly as it raced out, within five minutes water raced back in at the drainage outlet at Kalama Park in Kihei Friday.
For a Maui County recap on the damage from Friday's tsunami from Star-Advertiser reporter Christie Wilson, click here. (Back to Top)

NEWS FLASH - March 12, 2011 11:10 a.m. HST

Pacific Whale Foundation Resumes Ma'alaea Operations

MA'ALAEA (MAUI), HI -- (Saturday, March 12) -- Pacific Whale Foundation's Eco-Adventures, including all whalewatches and snorkel tours, are back in normal operation as of mid-day today, reported Greg Kaufman, President and Founder of Pacific Whale Foundation. Pacific Whale Foundation's Ocean Stores are also open for business.

“We spent an anxious evening on Thursday night, responding to the tsunami warning that had been issued for Hawai'i,” said Kaufman. "Our staff mobilized to take our ecotour boats out to sea in deeper water, where they would be safer, and to secure our research data and other computerized records."

"We were very fortunate in that our only loss was a small dinghy that got swamped," noted Kaufman. "There was some damage to Ma'alaea and Lahaina Harbors from the wave surge, but the Coast Guard has given us the okay to resume a regular ecoadventure schedule as of today."

The Maui News reported that there were numerous areas where the tidal surge pushed water at least 100 yards onshore. A fire crew helped to pick up a 40 to 50 pound sea turtle that had been washed ashore, and returned it to the ocean. (To view the video, click here.) Fish and octopus were also found on some roads.

"Considering that our offices are just above sea level at Ma'alaea Harbor, we were very fortunate," said Kaufman. "We thank county, state and federal authorities who worked tirelessly to ensure that we all had ample warning to take the steps necessary to protect our vessels, our records and our staff."

"Whales did not seem to be affected by the tsunami," said Kaufman. "We are seeing lots of whale activity today, and the weather today is ideal for whalewatching, with blue skies and light winds."

"Our hearts go out to the people of Japan and to those who sustained losses due to the earthquake and tsunami," says Kaufman. "Our staff is already discussing ways to help support the relief efforts in Japan."

To arrange for whalewatch, dolphin watch, snorkel, sunset or evening cruises, please call Pacific Whale Foundation at 1-800-942-5311 ext. 1 or visit www.pacificwhale.org.

(Report Provided By Pacific Whale Foundation)

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Reporter's Narrative Covers Maui Tsunami Effects

Kahului Harbor was expected to bear the brunt of yesterday's tsunami on Maui, but two beachfront hotels, a pair of canoe hale and other properties in the danger zone were spared as the ocean pushed inland about a quarter-mile up Puunene Avenue.

Mayor Alan Arakawa said there were no injuries from the tsunami, which included surges of 6 to 9 feet, although two or three houses in Paukukalo near the harbor and in Spreckelsville by Kahului Airport reportedly sustained minor damage. Arakawa also said there were a few waste-water spills, as pump stations had been closed as a precaution in advance of the waves.

Sections of Puunene and Kaahumanu avenues by the harbor were closed for most of the morning as road crews removed sand, plant material and other debris. Water on the roads reportedly was 6 to 8 inches deep at one point.

On Amala Street east of the harbor, a 40- to 50-pound sea turtle was discovered washed ashore near Kanaha Beach Park. Maui firefighters attempted to return it to the ocean.

Honoapiilani Highway between Maalaea and Lahaina also was closed, as was a flooded portion of South Kihei Road. County spokesman Rod Antone said the island's 14 evacuation centers were filled, with as many as 500 people in some facilities.

The highest dollar losses were likely at Maalaea Harbor, where at least two boats sank and several others were damaged along with some of the piers.

Jamie Dancil, who owns Jamie's Boat Repair, said he spent the night at the harbor, watching the brown, soupy waters repeatedly ebb and rise. He said the vessels that were left tied at piers instead of taken out to safer seas hit bottom when the ocean dropped.

"I've been here for 27 years, and we've had surges before, but not like this," he said.

Commercial fisherman Ricardo Alvarez, 62, said fellow boaters were not able to reach him about the approaching tsunami because of AT&T's wireless service outage. By the time he got down to Maalaea at about 5 a.m. yesterday, his 31-foot Surat sport-fishing boat had lost its transom when a surge lifted the vessel 10 feet above normal sea levels. He estimated the damage at $10,000.

Back at Kahului Harbor, boulder barriers, naupaka hedges and a slight elevation change helped protect the 147-room Maui Beach and 195-room Maui Seaside hotels.

Maui Seaside guests Leonard Pleva and Elijah Mikowski of Michigan said they were in Lahaina when the Civil Defense siren sounded Thursday night. The pair was unaware of the magnitude-8.9 earthquake off Japan, and at first thought the siren was a signal that the town was shutting down for the night. When informed of the tsunami threat, they headed back to their Kahului hotel and were told to seek shelter at War Memorial Gym.

Pleva, 55, said they decided to head to higher ground in Wailuku and slept in their rental car until about 6 a.m.

"We're used to blizzards, but I've never seen anything like a tsunami," said Mikowski, 30. "I was kind of panic-stricken."

Pleva was more nonchalant about the potential disaster. "I just thought that if I was going to die, this would be a nice place to do it. It's paradise," he said.

On Kauai, county officials received reports of 6- to 8-foot waves running up as much as 80 feet inland at Hanalei, while Port Allen reported waves coming in two feet above the pier. There were no reports of injuries or significant damage, and Kauai was the first county to issue an all-clear, at 7:30 a.m.

Reach Christie Wilson at cwilson@staradvertiser.com.

(Report Provided by The Honolulu Star-Advertiser)

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NEWS FLASH - March 12, 2011 8:40 a.m. HST

ML&P Back in Black

Maui Land & Pineapple Co. resorted to terminating health and life insurance plans for retirees to help earn a significant profit in the fourth quarter.

The Kahului-based firm announced yesterday that it achieved a $12 million net profit in the last three months of 2010, compared with a net loss of $30.4 million in the same period a year earlier.

The gain was predominantly based on the cuts to retiree benefits as opposed to core operations running Kapalua Resort and developing and selling real estate around the West Maui resort. The cuts resulted in a $16.6 million gain, the company reported.

Unlike previous quarters, Maui Land didn't break out operating results for its resort and land development divisions. Detailed information on those operations will be included in a subsequent annual report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The fourth-quarter net profit was the second consecutive quarterly financial gain for Maui Land. A $20 million third-quarter profit was derived largely from recognizing a $26.7 million gain previously deferred from the March 2009 sale of Maui Land's Kapalua Plantation Golf Course.

For the full year, Maui Land earned $24.8 million. That reversed two years of losses — $123 million in 2009 and $79 million in 2008. Last year's profit was the most earned by the company in more than a decade.

Much of the gain last year is being used to pay down debt. During 2010 the company reduced its outstanding long-term debt to $45.2 million from $94.2 million.

Maui Land was hit hard by the downturn in financial and real estate markets in recent years, suffering big losses on a luxury time-share and condominium project and pineapple farming. After exiting the pineapple business, absorbing real estate losses and cutting staff and expenses, the company has concentrated on meeting its financial obligations to survive.

Warren Haruki, Maui Land's chairman and interim chief executive officer, said in a statement that significant challenges remain, though the company is focused on moving ahead under its reorganized business model.

"MLP's financial results showed continued improvement during 2010 as we strengthened our balance sheet, reduced our overhead costs and resolved several significant legacy obligations," he said.

Shares of Maui Land on the New York Stock Exchange closed yesterday before the earnings announcement at $6.71, down 29 cents from $7 on Thursday.

Maui Land stock has traded in the past 52 weeks between a high of $7.65 on March 29 and a low of $3.33 on July 12.

Based on outstanding shares of stock, Maui Land's earnings last year equaled $1.99 per share, compared with a $15.33 per-share loss a year earlier.

Reach Andrew Gomes at agomes@staradvertiser.com.

(Report Provided by The Honolulu Star-Advertiser)

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NEWS FLASH - March 12, 2011 8:10 a.m. HST

Pa'ia Man Set for Trial on Assault Charge

PAIA, Maui >> A 49-year-old man is scheduled to stand trial over allegations that he assaulted his neighbors during a fight in a Paia neighborhood last year.

A May 9 trial has been set for Nathan Kaipo Spencer, who has pleaded not guilty to charges of second- and third-degree assault, the Maui News reported.

Prosecutors say during a fight with neighbor James Foster on Jan. 22, 2010, Spencer kicked Foster and knocked him to the ground. When Foster's wife tried to help, prosecutors say Spencer hit her in the face.

Foster suffered a broken jaw, while his wife complained of pain to her left ear.

Foster was found unresponsive in his car about two weeks later, but police say an autopsy found nothing linking Foster's death to the fight.

(Report Provided by The Associated Press)

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West Hawai'i Residents Return to 'War Zone' After Tsunami

KEALAKEKUA BAY, Hawaii » Residents of this small community in West Hawaii returned home yesterday to what they described as a "war zone," where destructive waves had pulled one home into the ocean, pushed another 20 feet off its foundation and tossed cars into the water, against trees and atop stone walls as if they were toys.

There was a lot of grief in the small, tight-knit neighborhood about 30 minutes from Kona, as at least seven families — some of whom have lived on the same parcel for generations — realized their homes were severely damaged or destroyed.

But there were also tears of gratitude: Thank goodness everyone evacuated. Thank goodness no one stayed behind.

There are things worse than losing a house, said Shane Nelsen, standing in front of his cousin's home, which had been ripped from its foundations by the waves. Yesterday it stood lopsided and crumpled — in the neighbor's backyard.

"We've just got to move forward," Nelsen said. "Now is the time for us to come together."

The most destructive waves, residents say, came in at about 5 a.m. yesterday, sweeping through the community with enough force to pull a three-story, five-bedroom home into the ocean.

The rooftop of that home, whose owner is on the mainland, was visible in Kealakekua Bay for much of the day.

Seven other homes were flooded, and initial reports indicated wave heights of 11 to 12 feet in the bay, said Ed Teixeira, vice director of state Civil Defense. Nine cars were flooded with one dragged into the bay, he added.

The small community — residents call it a village — was by far the hardest hit by the tsunami that started rolling in early yesterday, though there was also hefty damage to several hotels and businesses along the water in Kona.

Civil Defense officials said it was far too early to make damage estimates but assured residents that they would try to lend assistance in any way possible.

As at Kealakekua Bay, the scene at some shoreline stretches of Kailua-Kona yesterday was one of cleanup, as store owners and hotel employees surveyed the damage.

The tsunami pushed more than a foot of water into the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel, which had recently been remodeled, breaking windows, rushing through businesses and leaving the lobby and meeting rooms under a layer of muck and water.

Tani Golden, owner of Beaches Resort Wear in the hotel, got to her shop to find just about everything wet.

There was a thick layer of sand on her carpet. A refrigerator in the break room was pushed on its side. And she scoured the hotel yesterday looking for the dresses and swimwear from her shop, which were found as far away as the parking garage on the other side of the hotel.

Golden, who estimates she has lost more than $50,000 in merchandise, said she could do little more than cry when she saw the mess. "I just felt I had been torn apart," she said.

At nearby Alii Place there was widespread damage to businesses, the road and a walking promenade (which was partially swept away).

The area reopened at about 4:30 p.m., and pretty soon, residents started streaming in to see the damage themselves. "I just can't believe it," said resident Tom Elsey, surveying the damage at the hotel. His wife, Heidi, said the destruction was "very wrong."

"This has just been overwhelming," she said.

As the sun set at Kealakekua Bay yesterday, many residents struggled to keep their emotions in check while trying to figure out how to tackle such an enormous cleanup.

"I keep on thinking it's a bad dream, to come down here and see everything gone," said Tasha Shanahan. "This is our life. This is our family."

During a break from picking up debris, Shanahan hugged her daughter close — the wreckage of their family home behind them — and told her not to cry. It would be OK, Shanahan reassured her.

Shanahan's father, Gordon Leslie, built the home room by room. Their family has been in the community for generations, and Shanahan and her children grew up there.

Gordon Leslie probably would have been there yesterday, too, digging out alongside relatives. But the 62-year-old is on Oahu, getting treatment for cancer.

Shanahan's eyes got red when she talked about how her father would react to seeing his home — his family's home — now nothing more than a gnarled collection of wood and stone. "It is absolutely devastating," she said.

Reach Mary Vorsino at mvorsino@staradvertiser.com.

(Report Provided by The Honolulu Star-Advertiser)

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NEWS FLASH - March 11, 2011 5 p.m. HST

IBEW 1260 Accepts New Contract

Union employees of Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO) and its subsidiaries, Maui Electric Company (MECO) and Hawaii Electric Light Company (HELCO), who are represented by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), Local 1260, have voted to ratify a new contract that will be in effect through October 31, 2013.

“We look forward to welcoming our union employees back to work,” said Dick Rosenblum, Hawaiian Electric president and CEO. “We sincerely appreciate the patience of our customers during this process.”

The union went on strike on March 4. A settlement agreement was reached on March 7.

IBEW represents approximately 1,280 workers (about 54% of employees) at the three companies, which provide electric service for Oahu, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and the Big Island.

(Report Provided by Hawaiian Electric Industries)

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NEWS FLASH - March 11, 2011 4:10 p.m. HST

Coast Guard Reopens Harbors - Except for Maui

HONOLULU -- U.S. Coast Guard crews reopened harbors throughout Guam, Saipan, American Samoa and the Main Hawaiian Islands, except for Maui, Friday.

The maritime community is reminded to listen and heed the warnings and advisories from the Coast Guard and civilian authorities.

Coast Guard cutters and aircraft crews have returned to base.

Two HH-65 Dolphin helicopters and one HC-130 Hercules aircraft from Air Station Barbers point conducted over flights today to assess port conditions.

Crewmembers aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Kiska, a 110-foot Patrol Boat homeported on the Big Island, conducted a survey on the Hilo side of the Big Island Friday.

The Coast Guard is focusing on the safety and security of the region's ports and waterways and is prepared for any calls for assistance.

Mariners are being urged to use caution when returning to port due to debris in the water, strong currents and nonfunctioning aids to navigation.

Coast Guard teams are providing for the safety of their crewmembers and families. We are also working closely with local, state and federal partners to ensure the safety of Guam, Saipan and Hawaii's citizens.

An Incident Command Post has been established at Coast Guard Sector Honolulu.

Coast Guard response teams are working closely with its partners the Hawaii State Department of Transportation Harbors Division, Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Boating and Ocean recreation, Hawaii State Civil Defense and the Department of Defense.

Coast Guard assessment teams and over flights’ indicate several piers have been damaged along the Hawaiian Islands; there is floating debris in the harbors on the Big Island and Maui. And we have reports of 10 sunken recreational vessels.
No tsunami related deaths or injuries have been reported.

Maui:
All harbors on Maui remains closed.

Oahu :
Keehi Lagoon Harbor remains closed.
Honolulu Harbor and Barbers Point are reopened.

Kauai:
Nawiliwili Harbor and Port Allen are reopened.

Big Island:
All harbors on the Big Island of Hawaii are open.

Guam:
Apra Harbor and all commercial boat docks in Guam are open.

American Samoa:
Pago Pago Harbor is open.

The Coast Guard is also investigating three oil sheens in Kihei Boat Ramp and Maalaea Small Boat Harbor on Maui and the Ala Wai Harbor on Oahu.

There is a report of a house that was washed into Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island.

(Report Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard)

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NEWS FLASH - March 11, 2011 2:40 p.m. HST

Coast Guard Releases Details of Aerial Assessment

HONOLULU - The Coast Guard is evaluating Tsunami damage Friday through the Hawaiian islands and Guam. Coast Guard assessments of the Hawaiian Islands have identified the following details. No loss of life or injury has been reported.

Maui:
- Maalaea Harbor continues to show signs of surge. No pollution reported.
- Two vessels sunken in harbor with one vessel overturned.
- All aids to navigation intact.

Oahu:
- Significant damages reported at Keehi Lagoon with approximately 200 vessels impacted.
- Keehi Lagoon still hazardous with continual tidal surges and shallow water levels.
- Keehi Lagoon docks broke free from moorings with multiple boats still attached.
- Multiple vessels in Keehi Lagoon floating free with multiple collisions occurring and one sailing vessel has collided with Sand Island Bridge.
- Haleiwa Harbor (#300s) piers destroyed with no vessels damaged.
- Coast Guard and good Samaritans continue to assist numerous recreational vessels disabled and adrift off Oahu.
- No damages reported to Waianae Harbor.

Kauai:
- No significant damages reported at this time.
- All aids to navigation remain intact.
- All piers and marinas intact.
- Significant trash and debris in marinas. No pollution reported.

Hawaii:
- Reports of damage and debris scattered around port.
- Civil Air Patrol currently conducting aerial assessment.

(Report Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard)

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NEWS FLASH - March 11, 2011 11:40 a.m. HST

Tsunami Advisory for Maui Cancelled

1. EVENT: The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Honolulu has CANCELLED the Tsunami Advisory effective at 11:26 a.m. this morning.

2. EFFECTS: Based on available data there is no longer a destructive Tsunami threat to Maui County.

3. PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES: Tsunami wave heights across the State of Hawaii are now below advisory levels and are continuing to diminish. Based on all available data the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center is now cancelling the tsunami advisory. Smaller sea level changes and strong or unusual currents may persist for several additional hours and appropriate caution should be exercised by boaters and swimmers.

4. INFORMATION: Maui County Civil Defense will continue to monitor the situation. Please listen to your local radio and TV stations or NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts for any updates.

NOAA Weather Broadcasts can be reached by calling 1-866-944-5025. NOAA Weather Internet services can be found at www.prh.noaa.gov/hnl.

Pre-recorded advisories and notifications are available 24-hours a day on the Maui County Automated Information System (AIS) by calling 986-1200. The same information is available on the Maui County website at www.mauicounty.gov.

(Report Provided by Maui County Civil Defense)

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NEWS FLASH - March 11, 2011 10:40 a.m. HST

Road Closure List Updated for Maui

As Maui recovers from a jittery, sleepless night, Public Works crews continue to work to bring the county's roads back into use. As of 10:40 a.m. the following roads remain closed:

Lower Waiehu Beach Road
Kahului Beach Road (Kaahumanu to Waiehu Beach Rd)
Lono Ave. (Kaahumanu to Kamehameha Ave.)
Puunene (Kaahumanu to Kamehameha Ave.)
Kaahumanu between Wakea & Hana Hwy.)
South Kihei Road (Kulanihakoi to Kaonoulu)

(Report Provided by the Maui County Office of Information)

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Crews Open Honoapi'ilani Highway, Road to Airport

WAILUKU, Maui, Hawaii — Maui County road crews and utility workers have gotten some major roads and services operational again.

Crews have cleared Honoapiilani Highway in both directions, for Kihei and Lahaina bound motorists. Crews have also cleared Keolani Place, the only road to Kahului International Airport. Lower Honoapi'ilani Road in West Maui remains closed.

Department of Water Supply workers have also restored water service to all areas.

North Kihei Road, South Kihei Road, Lower Waiehu Beach Road, Kahului Beach Road, Hobron Avenue and Amala Street remain closed however.

Crews are working to clear these areas as well.

In the meantime shelter officials are releasing those at evacuation centers in across the island so they can return to their homes and hotel rooms.

Maui police are asking that everyone drive safely, and to be patient while on the road.

(Report Provided by the Maui County Office of Information)

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NEWS FLASH - March 11, 2011 8:55 a.m. HST

Cleanup Still Blocking Some County Roads

WAILUKU, Maui, Hawaii — Maui County officials are advising residents that they may still not be able to get to their homes because some streets are still blocked off for maintenance and clean-up.

Until this work and these roads are clean people should stay put and allow County workers to do their jobs.

State Civil Defense downgraded its tsunami warning to a tsunami advisory at about 7:25 a.m. In the meantime more County workers are discovering more damage all across the island as they go out and assess what happened overnight.

At Maalaea Boat Harbor Maui major damage is being reported to all docks and four boats.

Along Amala Street a 40 to 50 pound sea turtle was washed on shore and found near Kanaha Beach Park. Fire fighters were attempting to return the turtle back into the ocean at this time.

Kahana Beach Park itself is flooded along with many County parks, all of which remain closed. Some parks like Kamaole II and Kalepolepo Park, which were already damaged during the heavy rains earlier this year, were damaged further this morning.

Kahului International Airport is open and operating, however roads leading to the airport remain closed. This means if any aircraft land at the airport passengers must be remain there until the roads reopen.

Please stay tuned and check the Maui County website, Facebook page or Twitter for updates.

(Report Provided by the Maui County Office of Information)

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Governor Comments On Tsunami Downgrade Order

HONOLULU – Governor Neil Abercrombie issued the following statement following the downgrade of the tsunami warning to a tsunami advisory:

“The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center has downgraded the tsunami warning to an advisory for the state of Hawaii. Please continue to exercise caution - stay out of the waterways and shoreline areas. Tidal activity around our islands remains unpredictable.

“Our government agencies worked diligently and collaboratively throughout the night and into the morning to ensure the safety and comfort of our residents.

“Although we were fortunate that a more destructive tsunami did not materialize, I can assure everyone that our agencies and officials are well-prepared to respond to emergencies of this nature.

“I want to thank our residents who live in inundation zones who heeded the directions of our first responders and civil defense agencies. I also appreciate the hard work of everyone involved in the disaster-preparedness effort.

“As we assess the extent of the damage here in Hawaii, our hearts go out to the people of Japan who have suffered and continue to suffer immeasurable loss as a result of this major earthquake, tsunami, and aftershocks. As one island people to another, we stand with them in solidarity and in sympathy for the challenges they face.

“During the upcoming hours, county agencies will assess their respective districts. State agencies will continue to work with the counties in this effort.”

(Report Provided by the Office of Governor Neil Abercrombie)

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NEWS FLASH - March 11, 2011 7:50 a.m. HST

Some Maui Roads Reopened

WAILUKU, Maui, Hawaii - Maui County Civil Defense officials want to remind residents that the tsunami warning is still in effect at this time.

Many roads and streets within the tsunami inundation zones remain closed, although Maui police have reopened two high traffic intersections: Hana and Haleakala highways and Hana Highway and Baldwin Avenue.

Maui Fire Department helicopter pilots took to the sky at about 6 a.m. to look for any people who may be stranded by high waters. As of 6:50 a.m. fire officials said so far there have been no sign of people in need of help.

Mayor Alan Arakawa along with his directors from Public Works, Wastewater Management and the Department of Water Supply also went up in a helicopter to assess the situation from the air. The plan is for the directors –who are all engineers – to quickly evaluate which areas need repairs and/or cleanup and so that they can direct work crews on the ground.

Waves in Kahului Harbor were estimated at around five to six feet. Maui police officials said they received reports of a 9 foot wave hitting Lahaina Harbor this morning.

(Report Provided by the Maui County Office of Information)

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NEWS FLASH - March 11, 2011 7:30 a.m. HST

Tsunami Warning Downgraded to Advisory

The Pacific Tsunami Center has downgraded the tsunami warning for Hawai'i to a tsunami advisory. This means evacuation orders are lifted. No official word has been issued from Maui County Mayor Alan Arakawa on when roads near the water will reopen. The public is reminded to stay off beaches and out of the ocean on Maui.

(Report Provided by the Pacific Tsunami Center)

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Mayor Urges Public to Stay Out of Flood Zones

WAILUKU, Maui, Hawaii --Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa is urging residents to stay away from evacuated areas which are still being hit by the tsunami.

Waves are flooding streets, overflowing sewage lines and leaving dirt, leaves, coconuts and other debris strewn everywhere. Affected areas include Kihei, Kahului, Lahaina and Maalaea.

Maui police have blocked off these areas but some motorists are still trying to drive through. In one instance a police officer had to chase down a car and knock on the driver's window to get him to stop and go around a flooded street.

"The threat of the tsunami is not yet over," said Mayor Arakawa. "Residents and tourists will know when they can go back to their homes and hotels because we will give them an all clear signal.

"We are almost through this. Don't be impatient because that could result in someone getting hurt." Roads are likely to remain closed for another hour at least.

(Report Provided by the Maui County Office of Information)

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NEWS FLASH - March 11, 2011 6:30 a.m. HST First Images from Kahului Tsunami Effects
TSUNAMI SURGE - Water up to six inches deep raced in from Kahului Harbor from tsunami waves estimated at more than seven feet. The wave surge reached down Pu'unene Avenue all the way to Kamehameha Avenue.	DEBRIS BY THE BANK - First Hawaiian Bank on the corner of Pu'unene and Ka'ahumanu Avenues escaped damage, but sand, debris and - reportedly - fish were left when the water flowed back into the harbor. (Maui County Photos)
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NEWS FLASH - March 11, 2011 6:10 a.m. HST

More Schools Closed by Tsunami Warning

In addition to schools reported earlier that announced closures due to the tsunami warning issued last night, the following schools are also closed today:

Carden Academy of Maui
St. Anthony Schools
Kamehameha Schoools
Emmanuel Lutheran, Kahului
Doris Todd Christian School in Paia

No "all-clear" has yet been sounded for the tsunami warning issued at 9:31 p.m. last night.

(Report Provided by the Maui County Office of Information)

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NEWS FLASH - March 11, 2011 5:40 a.m. HST

Kahului Harbor Sees Seven-Foot Waves, Inland Surge

Kahului Harbor appears to be the hardest hit by the series of tsunami waves racing through the state. Maui County spokesman Rod Antone says water - about six inches deep - is surging down Pu'unene Avenue as far inland as Kamehameha Avenue (about a half-mile from the harbor).

Scientists at the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center say wave heights in Kahului Harbor may have exceeded seven feet above normal sea level.

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Governor Calls In Essential Workers Only

HONOLULU – Governor Neil Abercrombie released the following statement regarding state employees reporting to work on Friday, March 11:

“All essential state employees and those involved in disaster response should report to work today, Friday, March 11.

“All other state employees should not report to work until otherwise notified by their supervisor.

“I want to thank everyone for being flexible during this difficult situation.”

(Report Provided by the Office of Governor Neil Abercrombie)

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NEWS FLASH - March 11, 2011 4:40 a.m. HST

NWS Issues Details on Kahului Tsunami Impact

A TSUNAMI WARNING CONTINUES IN EFFECT FOR THE STATE OF HAWAII.

AN EARTHQUAKE HAS OCCURRED WITH THESE PRELIMINARY PARAMETERS

ORIGIN TIME - 0746 PM HST 10 MAR 2011
COORDINATES - 38.3 NORTH 142.4 EAST
LOCATION - NEAR EAST COAST OF HONSHU JAPAN
MAGNITUDE - 8.9 MOMENT

MEASUREMENTS OR REPORTS OF TSUNAMI WAVE ACTIVITY

GAUGE LOCATION LAT LON TIME AMPL PER
------------------- ----- ------ ----- --------------- -----
*KAHULUI MAUI 20.9N 156.5W 1340Z 1.82M / 6.0FT 28MIN
LAHAINA HI 20.9N 156.7W 1335Z 0.50M / 1.6FT 64MIN
MILOLII HI 19.2N 155.9W 1350Z 0.67M / 2.2FT 12MIN
KAPOHO HI 19.5N 154.8W 1340Z 0.04M / 0.1FT 52MIN
BARBERS PT HI 21.3N 158.1W 1323Z 0.65M / 2.1FT 06MIN
HONUAPO HI 19.1N 155.6W 1340Z 0.04M / 0.1FT 32MIN
HALEIWA HI 21.6N 158.1W 1329Z 1.09M / 3.6FT 38MIN
MAKAPU`U HI 21.3N 157.7W 1312Z 0.49M / 1.6FT 52MIN
KAWAIHAE HAWAII 20.0N 155.8W 1330Z 0.85M / 2.8FT 56MIN
HONOKOHAU HI 19.7N 156.0W 1345Z 0.44M / 1.4FT 10MIN
NAWILIWILI KAUAI 22.0N 159.4W 1311Z 0.64M / 2.1FT 26MIN
HANALEI HI 22.2N 159.5W 1306Z 0.85M / 2.8FT 28MIN
TERN FR. FRIGATE US 23.9N 166.3W 1224Z 0.37M / 1.2FT 16MIN

(*NOTE - THE KAHULUI MEASUREMENT IS CLIPPED. ACTUAL IS LARGER.)

LAT - LATITUDE (N-NORTH, S-SOUTH)
LON - LONGITUDE (E-EAST, W-WEST)
TIME - TIME OF THE MEASUREMENT (Z IS UTC IS GREENWICH TIME)
AMPL - TSUNAMI AMPLITUDE MEASURED RELATIVE TO NORMAL SEA LEVEL.
IT IS ...NOT... CREST-TO-TROUGH WAVE HEIGHT.
VALUES ARE GIVEN IN BOTH METERS(M) AND FEET(FT).
PER - PERIOD OF TIME IN MINUTES(MIN) FROM ONE WAVE TO THE NEXT.

NOTE - DART MEASUREMENTS ARE FROM THE DEEP OCEAN AND THEY
ARE GENERALLY MUCH SMALLER THAN COASTAL MEASUREMENTS.

EVALUATION

A TSUNAMI HAS BEEN GENERATED THAT COULD CAUSE DAMAGE ALONG
COASTLINES OF ALL ISLANDS IN THE STATE OF HAWAII. URGENT ACTION
SHOULD BE TAKEN TO PROTECT LIVES AND PROPERTY.

A TSUNAMI IS A SERIES OF LONG OCEAN WAVES. EACH INDIVIDUAL WAVE
CREST CAN LAST 5 TO 15 MINUTES OR MORE AND EXTENSIVELY FLOOD
COASTAL AREAS. THE DANGER CAN CONTINUE FOR MANY HOURS AFTER THE
INITIAL WAVE AS SUBSEQUENT WAVES ARRIVE. TSUNAMI WAVE HEIGHTS
CANNOT BE PREDICTED AND THE FIRST WAVE MAY NOT BE THE LARGEST.
TSUNAMI WAVES EFFICIENTLY WRAP AROUND ISLANDS. ALL SHORES ARE AT
RISK NO MATTER WHICH DIRECTION THEY FACE. THE TROUGH OF A TSUNAMI
WAVE MAY TEMPORARILY EXPOSE THE SEAFLOOR BUT THE AREA WILL
QUICKLY FLOOD AGAIN. EXTREMELY STRONG AND UNUSUAL NEARSHORE
CURRENTS CAN ACCOMPANY A TSUNAMI. DEBRIS PICKED UP AND CARRIED
BY A TSUNAMI AMPLIFIES ITS DESTRUCTIVE POWER. SIMULTANEOUS HIGH
TIDES OR HIGH SURF CAN SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASE THE TSUNAMI HAZARD.

MESSAGES WILL BE ISSUED HOURLY OR SOONER AS CONDITIONS WARRANT.

(Report Provided by the National Weather Service)

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Coast Guard Reminds Mariners to Monitor Emergency Frequencies

HONOLULU - Coast Guard rescue crews are making preparations throughout the Main Hawaiian Islands to provide post-tsunami support following the devastating earthquake in Japan, Thursday.

The maritime community is reminded to listen and heed the advisories from civilian authorities.

The Coast Guard has relocated its aircraft and ships out of harms way. Crews are prepared to respond to calls for help. Coast Guard HC-130 Hercules aircraft are prepared to launch. Coast Guard HH-65 Dolphin helicopters are prepared to conduct response and survey missions as soon as it is safe to do so.

Capt. Joanna Nunan, the Captain of the Port, Honolulu, has closed all commercial ports. All vessels in the Port of Honolulu have been relocated to safety. All seaworthy vessels are encouraged to evacuate if possible. All recreational boaters are asked to take immediate safety precautions and avoid the surge.

The Coast Guard is focused on maintaining the safety and security of the region's ports and waterways and is preparing for any calls for assistance. The Port of Guam is also closed and Coast Guard crews at Coast Guard Sector Guam are conducting inspections of boat basins for damage. Cutters are out to sea and are standing ready to respond.

Coast Guard teams here are also providing for the safety of their crewmembers and families and are working closely with local, state and federal partners to ensure the safety of Hawaii's citizens and to provide for the safety and security of Hawaii's ports and waterways.

An Incident Command Post has been established, and Coast Guard response teams are working closely with its partners in the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Hawaii State Department of Transportation, Hawaii State Civil Defense and the Department of Defense.

(Report Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard)

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NEWS FLASH - March 11, 2011 4:25 a.m. HST

Despite Calm, Officials Say 'Stay Back'

WAILUKU, Maui, Hawaii — Maui County Civil Defense officials are urging that residents and tourists stay out of evacuation areas until the all clear signal is given.

Civil Defense officials warn that multiple waves are expected to hit the state and that sometimes it is the second or third wave which causes the most damage.

Also, even after the last wave passes roads must remain clear so that utility workers can restore services which were shut down in preperation for a tsunami.

Again, do not return to your homes or hotel rooms at this time. The mayor will issue an all clear once officials assess it is safe to go back into evacuated areas.

(Report Provided by the Maui County Office of Information)

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Tsunami Warning Continues, Heights and Intervals Vary Wildly

1. EVENT: The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center at Ewa Beach has continued the TSUNAMI WARNING for the Hawaiian Islands.

A tsunami warning means that a significant earthquake has occurred. Tsunami approach confirmed.

2. EFFECTS: An earthquake has occurred at 7:46 p.m. HST on March 10, 2011 near the east coast of Honshu, Japan. The magnitude has been upgraded to an 8.9 moment measurement. Sea level readings confirm that a tsunami has been generated that could cause widespread damage.

Measurements or reports of tsunami wave activity

Gauge location LAT LON Time Ampl Per
------------------- ----- ------ ----- --------------- -----
Nawiliwili, Kauai 22.0n 159.4w 1311z 0.64m / 2.1ft 26min
Haleiwa 21.6n 158.1w 1316z 1.00m / 3.3ft 56min
Makapu'u 21.3n 158.1w 1312z 0.50m / 1.6ft 52min
Hanalei 22.2n 159.5w 1306z 0.85m / 2.8ft 28min

3. INFORMATION: Maui County Civil Defense will continue to monitor the situation. Please listen to your local radio and TV stations or NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts for any updates. NOAA Weather broadcasts can be reached by calling 1 866 944-5025. The Tsunami Warning Center web page can be found at www.prh.noaa.gov/ptwc.

Maui Civil Defense will continue to update the situation as necessary. Check Maui County website at www.mauicounty.gov for more information or the County Facebook and/or Twitter pages.

(Report Provided by Maui County Civil Defense)

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Kahului Seeing Six-Foot Wave

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center says Kahului Harbor is experiencing a six-foot tsunami surge. Scientists say the second wave of the tsunami is just now arriving at Kahului. Waves are arriving at 12-15 minute intervals. So far there have been no reports of damage.

(Report Provided by the Pacific Tsunami Center)

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Tsunami Should Arrive Soon

With the first tsunami waves set to arrive in just minutes all counties in Hawai'i report that all emergency precautions have been taken statewide and only scattered situations of uncooperative individuals are being reported - and mostly in Honolulu.

We will update the situations across Hawai'i as they are made available to Maui TV News.

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Entire Pacific Under Tsunami Warning

The Pacific Tsunami Center has alerted all nations facing the Pacific to expect tsunami waves.

As of 1:50 a.m., tsunami warnings are in effect for Japan, Russia, Marcus Is., N. Marianas, Guam, Wake Is., Taiwan, Yap, Philippines, Marshall Is., Belau, Midway Is., Pohnpei, Chuuk, Kosrae, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Nauru, Johnston Is., Solomon Is., Kiribati, Howland-baker, Hawaii, Tuvalu, Palmyra Is., Vanuatu, Tokelau, Jarvis Is., Wallis-futuna, Samoa, American Samoa, Cook Islands, Niue, Fiji, New Caledonia, Tonga, Mexico, Kermadec is, Fr. Polynesia, Pitcairn, Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Antarctica, Panama, Honduras, Chile, Ecuador, Colombia and Peru.

(Report Provided by the Pacific Tsunami Center)

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County Updates Closure List; Mayor Asks for Calm

WAILUKU, Maui, Hawaii - The Department of Education has officially announced the closure of all schools tomorrow.
Maui County is also announcing that it is shutting down the Kahului, Kihei and Lahaina wastewater treatment plants at 1 a.m. because they are located in tsunami inundation zones.

No road closures for Molokai at this time. At 0130 we will close Kam V Highway, at Kawela I. Next is at the Industrial area, which will close down Maunaloa Highway. We will also close Maunaloa at Kalae Highway. Lastly, we will have 2 officers roving in town area.

This will coincide with the Water Department also shutting down its pumping stations. As a result residents are being asked to only use water when necessary, and to conserve their drinking water.

Maui police and fire officials are assisting with evacuation in affected areas. Estimated time of arrival of a potential tsunami at Kahului Harbor is 3:23 a.m.

For persons outside the evacuation areas, please stay where you are, stay off the roads and highways and refrain from sightseeing. We also ask that everyone keep their telephones clear for emergency calls only.

Maui County Civil Defense has announced that it will be sounding emergency sirens every hour on the hour in preperation for a potential tsunami.

In the meantime Mayor Alan Arakawa asks that people remain calm and do not panic. This is in response to reports that people at gas stations have been shouting and acting aggressively while trying to buy fuel.

"This is not the time to panic. We have plenty of time to prepare and take care of our families. Remain calm and treat each other with respect.

Police and fire and civil defense officials are out there helping to evacuate affected areas as we speak. We will see each other through this crisis together."

For residents who need to evacuate but do not have an alternative location to go to can go to one of the County's evacuation centers. They include

Cental Maui:
War Memorial
Velma Santos Community Center
Maui High School
Kahului School

South Maui:
Kihei Community Center

West Maui:
Baseball Field behind Lahaina Aquatics Center
Fleming Park
Lahainaluna Gym

East Maui:
Camp Keane
Hana High & Elementary

Upcountry:
Hannibal Tavares Community Center
Eddie Tam Gym
Kula Community Center

Maui County Civil Defense will continue to monitor the situation. Please listen to your local radio and TV stations or NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts for updates. NOAA Weather broadcasts can be reached by calling 1 866 944-5025. The Tsunami Warning Center web pagef can be found at www.prh.noaa.gov/ptwc.

(Report Provided by the Maui County Office of Information)

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Flood Zone Area Roads Closing at 1:30 a.m.

WAILUKU, Maui, Hawaii — The Maui Police Department announced the following road closures, not listing all the connect up roadways. Some roads remain open on Moloka'i and Lana'i - but all roads inside inundation zones in the county will close at 1:30 a.m. At 1:15 a.m., the following roads are closed:

Wailuku

Waiehu beach road, lower Waiehu beach road to Kahekili highway

Kahului beach road from Kaahumanu to Hookahi

Amala place at Hobron

Keolani Place at Dairy Road and Haleakala Extension

Haleakala @ Kala and Hana highway

Hana highway from Haleakala to Holomua road

Lana'i

Keomoku road

Manele highway @ Hulopoe

Kaumalapau highway @ MP 3

Hana

All costal roadways evacuated and monitored

Lahaina

Honoapiilani from Puamana park to Maalaea Harbor

All other costal roadways evacuated and monitored

Molokai

Maunaloa Highway @ Industrial park to Kamehameha V Highway @ Iliahi Drive

Kihei

North Kihei Road from Honoapiilani highway

South Kihei Road from North Kihei Road

Makena Alanui Road

(Report Provided by the Maui County Office of Information)

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NEWS FLASH - March 11, 2011 12:45 a.m. HST

All Public Schools Closed Friday; Water About to Shut Off

WAILUKU, Maui, Hawaii — The Department of Education has officially announced the closure of all schools today (Friday).

Maui County is also announcing that it is shutting down the Kahului, Kihei and Lahaina wastewater treatment plants at 1 a.m. because they are located in tsunami inundation zones.

This will coincide with the Water Department also shutting down its pumping stations. As a result residents are being asked to only use water when necessary, and to conserve their drinking water.

Maui police and fire officials are assisting with evacuation in affected areas. Estimated time of arrival of a potential tsunami at Kahului Harbor is 3:23 a.m.

For persons outside the evacuation areas, please stay where you are, stay off the roads and highways and refrain from sightseeing. We also ask that everyone keep their telephones clear for emergency calls only.

Maui County Civil Defense has announced that it will be sounding emergency sirens every hour on the hour in preperation for a potential tsunami.

In the meantime Mayor Alan Arakawa asks that people remain calm and do not panic. This is in response to reports that people at gas stations have been shouting and acting aggressively while trying to buy fuel.

"This is not the time to panic. We have plenty of time to prepare and take care of our families. Remain calm and treat each other with respect.

Police and fire and civil defense officials are out there helping to evacuate affected areas as we speak. We will see each other through this crisis together."

For residents who need to evacuate but do not have an alternative location to go to can go to one of the County's evacuation centers. They include

Cental Maui:
War Memorial
Velma Santos Community Center
Maui High School
Kahului School

South Maui:
Kihei Community Center

West Maui:
Baseball Field behind Lahaina Aquatics Center
Fleming Park
Lahainaluna Gym

East Maui:
Camp Keane
Hana High & Elementary

Upcountry:
Hannibal Tavares Community Center
Eddie Tam Gym
Kula Community Center

Maui County Civil Defense will continue to monitor the situation. Please listen to your local radio and TV stations or NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts for updates. NOAA Weather broadcasts can be reached by calling 1 866 944-5025.

The Tsunami Warning Center web page can be found at www.prh.noaa.gov/ptwc.

(Report Provided by the Maui County Office of Information)

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Governor Urges Public to Take Tsunami Threat Seriously

Governor Neil Abercrombie made the following statement from the State Civil Defense Emergency Operations Center:

“Residents should take this tsunami warning seriously. All state and county agencies and law enforcement are doing what needs to be done to ensure public safety.

“This is a time to be sensible and act with aloha. Please be mindful of your neighbors, especially for the elderly who may need kokua at this time. If you are in a tsunami inundation zone, please make your way to higher ground or go to your nearest shelter.”

Currently Hawai'i National Guard is on standby on all Hawaiian Islands. For the latest information, please tune in to your local radio and television stations; or visit www.scd.hawaii.gov.

(Report Provided by the Office of Governor Neil Abercrombie)

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NEWS FLASH - March 10, 2011 11:40 p.m. HST

Airports Closed, Harbors Busy

State Transportation officials says all state airports have closed - or will close within the next 30 minutes. The last flight into Kahului arrived at 11:30 and the last flight is leaving before midnight. Harbors - particularly Kahului Harbor on Maui - can expect a significant tidal surge beginning shortly after 3 a.m. Friday.

The U.S. Navy has announced that all Navy ships will remain anchored at Pearl Harbor in Honolulu. However, state vessels are leaving other state harbors.

(Information Provided by the Hawai'i State Department of Transportation)

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Evacuation Maps for Maui County Available Online

Forecasts remain unchanged that a tsunami series of waves is expected to impact Maui County beginning around 3:20 Friday morning. At this time the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center estimates wave height at six feet. All shores are vulnerable to impact.

Civil Defense officials say if you think you are in an evacuation zone, you should take action to protect life and property - then leave for higher ground as soon as possible. Maui County tsunami evacuation flood zone maps can be found by clicking here.

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Big Island Quake Rattles Nerves - But Not Related to Japan Event

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center says a 4.6 earthquake has struck on the southeast flank of the Kilauea volcano on the Big Island of Hawai'i. No tsunami has been generated and none is expected. USGS officials say there is no connection between the Hawai'i quake and the Japan quake of three and a half hours ago.

(Information Provided by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center)

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NEWS FLASH - March 10, 2011 10:50 p.m. HST

USGS Details Science of 8.9 Japan Earthquake

The 03/11/2011 earthquake (preliminary magnitude 8.9) near the east coast of Honshu, Japan, occurred as a result of thrust faulting on or near the subduction zone interface plate boundary between the Pacific and North America plates. At the latitude of this earthquake, the Pacific plate moves approximately westwards with respect to the North America plate at a velocity of 83 mm/yr. The Pacific plate thrusts underneath Japan at the Japan Trench, and dips to the west beneath Eurasia. The location, depth, and focal mechanism of the March 11 earthquake are consistent with the event having occurred as thrust faulting associated with subduction along this plate boundary. Note that some authors divide this region into several microplates that together define the relative motions between the larger Pacific, North America and Eurasia plates; these include the Okhotsk and Amur microplates that are respectively part of North America and Eurasia.

The March 11 earthquake was preceded by a series of large foreshocks over the previous two days, beginning on March 9th with an M 7.2 event approximately 40 km from the March 11 earthquake, and continuing with a further 3 earthquakes greater than M 6 on the same day.

The Japan Trench subduction zone has hosted 9 events of magnitude 7 or greater since 1973. The largest of these was an M 7.8 earthquake approximately 230 km to the north of the March 11 event, in December 1994, which caused 3 fatalities and almost 700 injuries. In June of 1978, an M 7.7 earthquake 75 km to the southwest caused 22 fatalities and over 400 injuries. In December of 2008, a sequence of 4 moderate earthquakes (M 5.3-5.8) occurred within 20 km of the March 11 event. In the first 12 hours following the March 11 earthquake, the region has experienced over a dozen aftershocks of M 5 or greater, the largest being M 5.7.

(Report Provided by the U.S. Geological Survey)

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NEWS FLASH - March 10, 2011 10:30 p.m. HST

First Wave Expected in Kahului Harbor at 3:23 a.m.

WAILUKU, Maui, Hawaii - The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center has issued a tsunami warning effecitve for all islands as of 9:30 p.m.

Please note that State officials sounded emergency sirens at 10 p.m., however those sirens were not heard in certain parts of Maui County.

As a result Maui Civil Defense sounded its sirens at 10:23 p.m.

Residents are being asked to "Prepare Now" for a tsunami which is estimated to first hit Kauai at 2:59 a.m. Waves are estimated to hit Maui at Kahului Harbor at 3:23 a.m.

Please read the civil defense "disaster preparedness" section of their website by clicking on the following link http://www.scd.hawaii.gov/preparedness.html

Maui police and fire have already begun to evacuate tsunami inundation areas. The Civil Air Patrol is flying over beach areas in order to inform those who may not be aware of the situation.

Also two locations previously listed as County Assembly Areas are not available for residents. Those are the Wailea Drive Grass Parking Lot and the Kapalua lot above the store.

Maui Civil Defense will continue to update the situation as necessary. Check Maui County website at www.mauicounty.gov for more information or the County Facebook and/or Twitter pages.

(Report Provided by Maui County Civil Defense)

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NEWS FLASH - March 10, 2011 10:25 p.m. HST

Evacuation Zones Are Listed in Phone Books

Residents and visitors are encouraged to check phone books to see if they are in an evacuation zone. Maps are in the first sections of all phone books.

The tsunami warning continues in effect with the first wave expected to arrive at 2:59 a.m. If a tsunami evacuation order is issued Police can compel people to leave their homes and move to higher ground. As of now the tsunami warning is expected to continue through 7 a.m. At this point, wave size is estimated at two meters above sea level.

Seismologists have increased - again - the magnitude of the initial quake. It has revised upward to 8.9 on the richter scale.

Sirens have begun sounding on Maui.

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Coast Guard Ready to Respond After Tsunami

HONOLULU -- U.S. Coast Guard rescue crews are making preparations throughout the Main Hawaiian Islands to provide post-tsunami support following the devastating earthquake in Japan Thursday.

First waves are expected to hit Hawaii at 2:59 a.m.

A tsunami warning is in effect for the state of Hawaii, the public is urged to check the phone book to determine if their residences are located in flood zones.

The public is urged to begin preparations to evacuate to higher ground if they are in flood zones.

Coast Guard cutter and aircraft crews are positioning themselves to be ready to conduct response and survey missions as soon as it is safe.

(Report Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard)

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Sirens to Sound Soon - As Tsunami Warning Continues

WAILUKU, Maui, Hawaii — Maui County officials are asking that people check to see if they are in a flood zone in order to prepare for a possible tsunami evacuation this evening. Residents and visitors can expect civil defense sirens - beginning at 10 p.m. this evening.

Flood maps can be found in the front section of the phone book or by going to www.scd.hawaii.gov and using the Tsunami Evacution Zone Mapping Tool.

If you are in a flood zone and need to evacuate, please head to a family or friend's home in upper lying areas out of the flood zone. If you do not have another location to evacuate to then head toward one of the following Maui County Assembly areas.

All Assembly Areas are restricted to parking areas only, they include:

Central Maui:
War Memorial Gym
Velma Santo Community Center
Maui High School

South Maui:
Kihei Community Center
Wailea Drive Drive Grass Parking Lot

West Maui:
Baseball Field Behind Aquatic Center
Fleming Park
Kapalua lot above store
Nahienaena Elementary School

East Maui:
Camp Keanae
Hana High & Elementary

UpCountry:
Hannibal Tavares Community Center
Eddie Tam Gym
Kula Community Center

(Report Provided by Maui County Civil Defense)

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NEWS FLASH - March 10, 2011 9:35 p.m. HST

Hawai'i Under Tsunami Warning - First Wave Expected at 2:59 a.m.

Maui County and all of Hawai'i are now under a tsunami warning. At 9:31 p.m. this evening a tsunami was confirmed to have been generated from the 8.8 magnitude earthquake near Honshu, Japan earlier this evening.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centere issued a statement saying, "A TSUNAMI HAS BEEN GENERATED THAT COULD CAUSE DAMAGE ALONG COASTLINES OF ALL ISLANDS IN THE STATE OF HAWAII. URGENT ACTION SHOULD BE TAKEN TO PROTECT LIVES AND PROPERTY."

The first estimted arrival is 2:59 a.m., Friday. A tsunami is not just one wave but a series of waves that can be destructive. Each wave crest can last five to 15 minutes and the danger can continue for many hours after the initial waves arrive. Also, keep in mind the first tsunami wave may not be the largest.

If you see the ocean receding, seek higher ground immediately. We will update warnings and statements as often as we receive them.

(Information Provided by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center)

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Hawai'i Remains - Under Tsunami Watch; Quake Magnitude Increased

As of 8:25 p.m. the magnitude of the Japan quake has been revised upward to 8.8. It struck at a depth of 15.2 miles 80 miles east of Honshu, Japan - or about 231 northeast of Tokyo.

There is still no confirmation that a tsunami has been generated - but the tsunami watch for Hawai'i remains in effect. See more details directly below.

(Information Provided by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center)

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Hawai'i Under Tsunami Watch

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center has issued a tsunami watch for the state of Hawai'i. At 7:46 p.m. this evening, HST, an earthquake estimated at 7.9 on the richter scale struck near the north east coast of Honshu, Japan.

At this time there is no evidence that a Pacific-wide tsunami has been generated. However, based on all available data, a tsunami may have been generated by the earthquake. An investigation is underway to determine if there is a tsunami threat to Hawai'i.

If tsunami waves arrive in the islands, the first arrival is estimated shortly before 3 a.m. tomorrow.

We will issue updates as often as they are available.

(Information Provided by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center)

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NEWS FLASH - March 10, 2011 1:50 p.m. HST

Spectacular Eruptions from Kilauea Abruptly Stop

The fountaining and surface lava activity at the Kamoamoa fissure on Kilauea volcano's east rift zone stopped by 10:30 p.m. Wednesday, the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reported this morning.

Lava started to recede after 5 p.m. Wednesday and spattering stopped by 10:30 p.m., signaling a pause in the eruption, officials said.

The amount of sulfur dioxide coming from the volcano decreased to about 5,000 tons a day, but that is still a significantly higher amount of emissions than before the latest eruption began on Saturday.

Seismic activity, an indication of lava movement, also remains high in the east rift zone, but not around Pu'u O'o Crater, which has been mostly quiet since the crater floor collapsed and the Kamoamoa fissure eruption began on Saturday.

At the summit, the lava lake remained deep — estimated at 720 feet — below the rim of the vent within the east wall of Halemaumau Crater.

On Tuesday, geologists estimated that more than 2.5 million cubic meters of lava a day was pouring out of Kamoamoa fissure near the Pu'u 'O'o Crater, covering more than 120 acres.

The U.S. Geological Survey also released new pictures of the eruption yesterday on the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory website, including thermal images of the fountaining and lava flow.

Reach Gregg Kakesako at gkakesako@staradvertiser.com.

(Report Provided by The Honolulu Star-Advertiser)

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NEWS FLASH - March 10, 2011 10:10 a.m. HST

400 Customers Lose Power in Ka'anapali

(Editor's Note: MECO reports all customers back online by 11:25 a.m.)

At 9:45 AM this morning, a power outage occurred in Kaanapali affecting approximately 400 customers. MECO’s troubleman is enroute to investigate the cause and work to restore power. An estimated time of restoration is unavailable at this time.

MECO apologizes for the inconvenience and requests the public’s patience as we work to bring our customers back online as quickly and safely as possible. An update will be provided as soon as available.

(Report Provided by Maui Electric Company)

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NEWS FLASH - March 10, 2011 8 a.m. HST

Foreclosures Dip Ever-So-Slightly in February

Property foreclosure activity in Hawaii declined 2 percent last month, but the small improvement appears to be part of a nationwide artificial reduction tied to difficulties of lenders processing cases.

There were 953 Hawaii foreclosure actions in February, compared with 972 in the same month last year, according to data from real estate research firm RealtyTrac.

February was the third consecutive month of lower year-over-year foreclosure filings in the state, and the number of filings compares with a peak of 1,629 in August. But local foreclosure attorneys and housing advocates do not believe the wave of homeowners on the verge of losing their homes is receding.

That's because several big banks have frozen foreclosure proceedings over the past several months to clear up questionable case documentation and processing issues that have been challenged by some borrowers in court.

Nationally, the number of foreclosure actions in February plummeted 27 percent from a year earlier. That was the biggest decline since RealtyTrac began issuing foreclosure reports in 2005, and put the number of filings in February at 225,101, or the lowest level for any month in three years.

James Saccacio, chief executive officer of California-based RealtyTrac, said in a statement that February foreclosure activity was affected by a short month that had some significant bad weather. But the main reason for the slowdown in filings was the reaction to allegations of improper processing by some lending giants including Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase and GMAC Mortgage, he said.

"The bottom line is that the industry is in the midst of a major overhaul that has severely restricted its capacity to process foreclosures," Saccacio said. "We expect to see the (foreclosure) numbers bounce back, but that will likely take several months."

By state, Nevada had the worst foreclosure rate at one foreclosure for every 119 households, or 9,553 foreclosure filings total. Vermont had the best rate at one filing per 62,849 households, or just five foreclosure filings.

Hawaii's rate was one filing per 541 households, which was 10th worst nationally. Hawaii has been at or close to the 10th worst spot for several months.

By county, Honolulu had the lowest rate of foreclosure filings last month at one for every 825 households, though filing volume was the most at 410.

The Big Island had the worst foreclosure rate at one filing per 270 households, or 299 filings in all.

Maui County -- comprising Maui, Molokai and Lanai -- had a rate of one filing per 362 households, or 184 filings total.

There were 60 foreclosure filings on Kauai, or one per 502 households.

Statewide, most Hawaii foreclosure filings were auction notices, with 543 such filings. Another 329 filings were lender repossessions that end the foreclosure process, and 84 filings were default notices that typically begin the foreclosure process.

RealtyTrac doesn't count multiple notices on the same property in the same month, but does count different types of filings in different months, which can give a somewhat inflated view of the number of properties facing foreclosure.

RealtyTrac also doesn't exclude commercial property from its count, which means popular vacation property in Hawaii such as time shares and condominium-hotel units can be among RealtyTrac's tally.

Reach Andrew Gomes at agomes@staradvertiser.com.

(Report Provided by The Honolulu Star-Advertiser)

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NEWS FLASH - March 10, 2011 7:30 a.m. HST

MECO, HECO, HELCO Workers Begin Settlement Voting

Striking Hawaiian Electric Co. workers yesterday began voting on a tentative contract agreement reached early Monday morning between union officials and company management.

Members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1260 cast ballots yesterday on Maui, Lanai and Molokai. Voting is scheduled to continue today on the Big Island and Friday on Oahu. The roughly 1,300 IBEW members who went on strike Friday afternoon will remain off the job without pay until there is a resolution of the labor dispute.

It is the second tentative agreement in five weeks between union negotiators and HECO officials. The first deal reached on Jan. 31 was voted down by union members on Feb. 18.

Neither IBEW nor HECO officials would comment on details of the tentative agreement.

The strike is the first by Local 1260 against Hawaiian Electric since 1973, according to the Center for Labor Education & Research, University of Hawaii-West Oahu. Some 1,100 members of Local 1260 struck in 1973 over pensions, wages, fringe benefits and subcontracting.

Shares of Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc., HECO's parent, closed up 3 cents at $24.79 yesterday on the New York Stock Exchange.

(Report Provided by The Honolulu Star-Advertiser)

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NEWS FLASH - March 10, 2011 7:10 a.m. HST

At Least 24 Dead Following China Quake

BEIJING >> An earthquake toppled more than 1,000 houses and apartment buildings in China's southwest near the border with Myanmar on Thursday, killing at least 24 people and injuring more than 200, officials and state media said.

Photos from the scene showed buildings that buckled, crushing their lower floors. Police, firefighters and soldiers rushed to the area to pull out people trapped in the rubble, including a man and girl stuck in the stairwell of a four-story building, according to state broadcaster China Central Television.

Parts of a supermarket and a hotel caved in, while sidewalks were lined with injured on blankets, being shielded from the sun by large vendor umbrellas.

The official Xinhua News Agency reported that 24 people had been killed, including four students, citing the Yingjiang county government in Yunnan province. Another 207 people were injured, 33 of them in critical condition.

The website of the Chinese government earthquake monitoring station said the magnitude-5.8 quake was centered in Yingjiang and struck just before 1 p.m. (0500 GMT) at a depth of six miles (10 kilometers). The U.S. Geological Survey measured the quake at a magnitude of 5.4 and at a deeper 21 miles (35 kilometers).

Some 1,200 houses or apartments were crushed by the quake, said Zhao Yunshan, director of Yingjiang government press office. More than 127,000 people have been evacuated to nearby shelters, Xinhua reported, citing the Civil Affairs Ministry.

Vice President Xi Jinping, expected to be the country's next leader, called for an "all-out" effort to get food, water and clothing to those affected by the quake, Xinhua said.

More than 1,000 soldiers have been sent to aid in rescue efforts, the news agency said. The quake hit while many people, including students, were home for a customary midday rest, CCTV reported.

Tremors continued to be felt in the area throughout the afternoon and evening, according to CCTV reporter Shu Qian, who was at the disaster scene in Yingjiang County.

The quake's epicenter was in Shiming Village, just over a mile (two kilometers) from the county seat, but triggered a power outage across Yingjiang, which has a population of about 300,000 people, Xinhua said.

By evening, the power supply was still cut off, though water and communications didn't appear to be damaged, Shu said.

A government team that includes the Civil Affairs Ministry has been dispatched to the quake-stricken area, CCTV said. About 5,000 tents, 10,000 quilts and 10,000 coats are also being sent from the central government.

The mountainous area lies 1,500 miles (2,400 kilometers) southwest of Beijing, close to the border with Myanmar, and is home to many ethnic groups on both sides of the border, which sees heavy traffic in people and goods.

Xinhua said the quake-prone region has been hit by more than 1,000 minor tremors over the past two months.

The Myanmar Meteorological Department released a statement saying a quake had hit some 230 miles (370 kilometers) northeast of Mandalay, the country's second-largest city.

The statement did not mention injuries, damage or the specific area of Myanmar most affected by the quake. Authorities in the tightly ruled country tend not to immediately discuss the effects of natural disasters.

Much of the area on the Myanmar side been under the control of various armed ethnic groups, who have battled the Myanmar military to remain free from central government control.

(Report Provided by The Associated Press)

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