Hawaii Island power restoration continues for 6,000 customers

More than 6,300 customers on Hawaii Island remain without power following the impacts of Hurricane Lala. Restoration efforts are being bolstered by the arrival of additional utility crews and equipment from Maui, Oahu, and Southern California.

Southern California Edison (SCE) has deployed 50 workers to the Puna and Waimea areas. Specialized equipment, including bucket trucks and a cable reel trailer, was transported to Hilo via military air shipment from March Air Reserve Base. Hawaiian Electric (HECO) senior vice president Jim Alberts noted that the coordination between state leadership and multiple agencies was essential to accelerate recovery and prepare for potential future storms.

Repair progress has been hindered by weather impacts from Tropical Storm Moke. Crews are currently working in several hard-hit locations, including Kaloko Mauka, Holualoa, Mountain View, Glenwood, and various coastal and mountain communities.