Powerful kona storm begins trek down island chain; severe weather to persist

The 2023 Maui wildfires were linked to significantly higher levels of depression and anxiety among residents, with impacts extending beyond the burn zones and closely tied to housing and income disruption. That’s according to a new University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa study published March 11 in “JAMA Psychiatry.”

As severe weather from a powerful Kona storm begins blanketing the state, the Hawaiʻi Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Insurance Division is encouraging residents to review their insurance policies and take steps now, that can make the recovery and insurance claims process easier after the storm passes.

“Cybersecurity Risk Management and Vulnerability Assessments for Small Businesses” is a free Zoom meeting presented by the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College for sole proprietors and registered businesses in Hawai‘i. It will take place on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, 12–1 p.m. via Zoom. This is the third and final session in a series.

Hisako Film Lab, in collaboration with Fuzz Box Productions, hosts its first-ever Fast Kine Maui 4-Day Film Challenge, taking place March 25-29 on Maui.

A powerful and slow-moving kona low northwest of the islands will bring a prolonged period of hazardous weather to the state through the upcoming weekend. Expect periods of heavy rain, bringing the potential for flash flooding, strong kona winds, and strong to severe thunderstorms.

Due to the powerful approaching storms, all camping areas on Maui, Molokaʻi and Oʻahu are closed until further notice. The closure went into effect at 1 a.m. on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Division of Forestry and Wildlife, and Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation are advising residents and visitors to avoid outdoor recreation and take precautions on the water as severe weather approaches.

US Sen. Mazie Hirono of Hawaiʻi and more than 30 colleagues introduced a bicameral resolution Tuesday to designate March 10, 2026, as Abortion Provider Appreciation Day, citing the need to protect healthcare workers facing rising threats.

The Hawai‘i Department of Health has identified a new travel-related dengue virus case on Oʻahu, marking the state’s third confirmed infection of the year involving an individual who recently visited an affected region. Department teams deployed to the area to conduct inspections and implement mosquito control measures. Officials said the virus is not established in […]

To prepare for a powerful kona storm, Mayor Richard Bissen signed an emergency proclamation on Tuesday, that lets the county access state and federal assistance and streamlines procedures to quickly deploy resources, personnel and services if needed.

The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Watch for Haleakalā on Maui and Big Island summits from Thursday evening until Sunday afternoon. The forecast calls for wind from the southwest blowing at 45-65 mph with gusts up to 85 mph possible.

Relationship counselor and author Lee Shapiro will present techniques for resolving personal and professional conflict during a Rotary Club of Kīhei-Wailea meeting beginning at 11:45 a.m. Wednesday at Kīhei Lutheran Church. Shapiro, who has more than 45 years of experience in the field, recently authored “The Art of Melting Conflict in all Relationships.” His presentation […]