Cleanup & Prevention Planning Continues, Post-Wildfire

Cleanup & Prevention Planning Continues, Post-Wildfire

Highlighted News Stories from November & December 2023.

EPA Removes Hazardous Materials From Lahaina Commercial Properties.

The EPA is nearing the end of its cleanup in Lahaina post-wildfire, tackling hazardous materials at commercial properties, and addressing challenges due to their size and varied hazards. Phase 1 is almost complete, with 90% of hazardous materials removed, and the focus is now on more complex sites before transitioning the remaining work to the Army Corps. The EPA continues to control ash spread and secure batteries from vehicles and solar systems while preparing for the next phase of debris removal. Residents can engage with EPA outreach teams for more information.

Maui County Expects To Open Two More Residential Zones In Lahaina.

Maui County will reopen two residential zones (8C and 9C) in Lahaina next week, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday and Tuesday. Access will be via Lahainaluna Road and Kale Street, with reentry vehicle passes available at designated locations. Passes require ownership documentation or residency proof. After the first two days, checkpoint passage will be accessible daily for residents with passes or valid IDs. Support services and transportation available for residents will include water, sanitation, and extended Maui Bus hours for transportation from local hotel shelters.

HECO Lays Out Wildfire Strategy: Spotters, Shut-Offs, & Better Technology.

Hawaiian Electric is revamping its wildfire safety strategy after the devastating Maui fires in August. The strategy includes deploying spotters to high-risk areas, shutting off power automatically when faults are detected, and integrating advanced technology. With a heightened wildfire risk due to ongoing drought conditions, the company is focusing on a three-phase approach:

  • PHASE 1 involves immediate actions (deploying spotters & automatic power shut-offs).
  • PHASE 2 covers grid reinforcement (inspections, upgrades, & vegetation management).
  • PHASE 3 looks at long-term measures (underground lines, forecasting, & collaborations).

Hawaiian Electric is also working on a $190 million resilience plan to fortify the grid against various threats, seeking approval and funding to bolster these initiatives. The company is exploring a public safety power shutoff program, albeit cautiously, due to concerns about its impact on vulnerable customers and emergency services. The program would involve extensive coordination and technological readiness, aiming to be a last-resort measure once other strategy phases are in place.

Note: Parts of this post were written using ChatGPT, with details gathered from Maui News.