Weather impacts from kona storm persist with strong winds in the forecast

US Sen. Mazie K. Hirono joined colleagues in sending a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., demanding that HHS take immediate action to protect Americans’ uninterrupted access to comprehensive family planning and services by awarding a one-year full funding extension for all current Title X grantees.

Molokai High, Molokai Middle, Kaunakakai Elementary, Kilohana Elementary and Maunaloa Elementary on Molokai will be closed today, March 12, due to flooded roads affecting safe access to the campuses. The schools are notifying staff and students’ families.

The Hawaiʻi House of Representatives on Tuesday adopted bills to modernize and strengthen the state’s criminal justice system. Developed by the House Committee on Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs, the measures focus on increasing fairness, ensuring law enforcement is qualified and well trained, improving transparency and data collection, and promoting better outcomes for individuals and communities.

Native CDFI and nonprofit mortgage lender Hawai‘i Community Lending announced today its board officers and new executive leadership team, including internal promotions as well as new hires. With a depth of experience and resources that extend beyond business into a well of cultural strength, HCL’s people are prepared to bring real solutions to Hawai‘i’s housing crisis.

The County of Maui’s Kepaniwai Park and the State of Hawaiʻi’s ʻĪao Valley State Monument are closed due to the severe weather forecast. Signs are posted below Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens, blocking access for entry.

Low Gravity, a Maui nonprofit dedicated to inspiring joy and fulfillment through creative experiences, announced that tickets are officially on sale for the return of its whimsical production, Circus Lolo – a life-size, live-action cartoon circus parody.

The Kilolani Spa at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort is celebrating its second anniversary this month, honoring the Kilolani or ancient Hawaiian stargazers who looked to the skies to navigate their course.

The study found paddling connects people to their health, ancestors, environment and sense of purpose.

Hawaiʻi Energy, the state’s energy conservation program, distributed 132 new energy-efficient refrigerators and freezers to Lānaʻi households today through its Appliance Trade-Up Program. 

The $10 billion budget prioritizes investments that support local families, strengthen essential public services, and build long-term resilience for Hawaiʻi’s communities. Funding is directed toward critical areas including health and human services, environmental stewardship, disaster preparedness, public safety, and education.

Hawaiian Electric achieved a 37% consolidated renewable portfolio standard in 2025, marking progress toward the 2030 RPS milestone of 40% — even as the company’s electricity demand grew at the highest rate in over 20 years.

A travel advisory has been issued for Hawaiʻi Airports as severe weather conditions persist statewide. The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation advises travelers to arrive at the airport at least three hours prior to their scheduled departure time for transpacific flights and at least 90 minutes prior to scheduled departure time for interisland flights.