MEDIA RELEASE

This is a Department of Water Supply water emergency restriction notice for Tuesday afternoon May 22, 2012 at 3:45 p.m.

The Department of Water supply reported yesterday the QLT Well in North Kona above Mamalahoa Highway failed. As a result, water storage dropped, and remaining sources of the system were not able to keep up with normal demand. North Kona customers were immediately issued a water restriction notice, and were advised to restrict water consumption to essential use only. Water restriction means a 25% reduction in daily water use.

At this time, backup sources are on line, and water tank levels remain low. Though the system has water, north Kona water customers remain on water restriction because these sources are not able to meet normal demand. Customers on restriction are in the following areas:

• Ka‘iminani Street, Hinalani Street and upper Palani Street including all side streets and subdivisions off of these roads
• Along Mamalahoa Highway from Keopu Heights to Kona Ocean View/Pu‘ukala including all side streets and subdivisions off of these roads
• Along Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway from north of Kealakehe Parkway to Keahole Airport including NELHA, Keahole Ag Park, all commercial/industrial areas, side streets, and subdivisions off of these roads.

At this time, Department of Water Supply has procured an emergency repair contractor who mobilized to the site to begin pulling the pump out. After the pump is pulled, an investigation of the cause of failure will ensue, and a determination of the necessary requirements and timeline for the repair will be made. Until this information is available, it is unknown when repairs can be completed.

At this time, due to the current status of the North Kona water system, the following advisory is in effect: water spigots off fire hydrants are set up for customers to access water during this emergency in the vicinity of Kealakehe Parkway mauka of the West Hawaii Civic Center and at the intersection of Keanalehu Street and Puohulihuli Street above Kealakehe High School.

Again, The Department of Water Supply reports the QLT Well in North Kona is down. Back up sources now online are unable to keep up with normal demand. Customers in the affected area are advised to restrict water use to essential use only. It is unknown at this time when repairs can be completed. You will be informed as information becomes available.

If you need additional information or have emergency needs, please call 961-8790. Your cooperation is needed and appreciated.