Well water supplementing the water supply for Maui's Upcountry water system
9/11/2025 12:00:00 AM
CATEGORIES:
Relief, Response & Restrictions
Society & Public Health
Water Supply & Quality
AFFECTED AREAS:
Maui County, HI
Haiku, HI
Haliimaile, HI
Makawao, HI
Pukalani, HI
Start Date: 8/28/2025
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The County of Maui Department of Water Supply began using the backup supply for the Upcountry water system on Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025, after receiving approval by the Hawaiʻi Department of Health, Safe Drinking Water Branch to use water from Hamakuapoko Wells 1 and 2. The water from the wells was being used due to existing and projected water shortages in the Upcountry water system serving Upper and Lower Kula, Makawao, Pukalani, Hāliʻimaile and Haʻikū.
The insufficient surface water flow into Piʻiholo reservoir, warmer than average temperatures and inadequate forecasted precipitation led to the decision to access the wells, according to DWS. The Upcountry water system relies heavily on surface water.
Maui County, HI (Wailuku, Hawaii), Sept 10, 2025
Beginning around September 5, Maui’s Department of Water Supply will start to use water from Hamakuapoko Wells 1 and 2. This will supplement the Upcountry water system, according to the County of Maui’s website. The well water will be used because Piʻiholo Reservoir has low surface water as the area was in drought.
Hoodline Honolulu (Hawaii), Aug 28, 2025
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