MEDIA RELEASE

This past Presidents Day weekend, High Wind Advisories has been in effect for various parts across the state, including the Island of Hawaii, and has been extended until 6 p.m. this evening, Tuesday, February 19, 2013. A wind advisory means that there are sustained winds of at least 30 MPH with gusts as high as 50 MPH.  The high winds have impacted HELCO’s system, causing trees, branches and other objects to contact our lines.

Various areas of the Big Island has been affected, including Waikoloa, Kawaihae, Lalamilo, Ahualoa, Kukuihaele, Papaaloa, Puna, and other locations. HELCO personnel were dispatched and worked throughout the weekend to restore power to all customers.

As a safety reminder, the public should not approach or touch any downed power lines or equipment. If you see a downed power line, you should stay as far away as possible and report any damage or outages to our Dispatch center at 969-6666.  For more information and safety tips on what to do if your power goes out you can visit our website at HELCOHI.COM and click on the “Safety and Emergency” tab.

HELCO apologizes for any disruption these may have caused and sincerely thanks customers for their cooperation and understanding. Mahalo.