Umauma Bridge construction. July 12, 2015. Hawaii 24/7 File Photo

From Hawaii County Civil Defense: The State Highways Department reports that the Umauma Bridge on Highway 19 in the area of the 16 to 17 mile marks in Hamakua remains closed to all traffic. A detour has been set up through the Old Mamalahoa Highway and motorists are advised to drive with caution and to expect traffic delays. Presently delays of up to 30 minutes can be expected and if possible alternate routes should be used. It is unknown at this time when the bridge will be reopened. All other major roadways and highways are open at this time.

Hawaii County Civil Defense Director Darryl Oliveria told Hawaii 24/7 the State Highways Department asked that the bridge be closed until they can check the footings. Due to the recent heavy rains crews would like to check the base of the temporary bypass bridge but heavy water flow has delayed inspections.

Oliveria stressed that they did not indicate any imminent danger with the bridge but would still like to check it.

It’s possible that the bridge may re-open by Thursday (Nov 19) but that is still pending the inspection.

UPDATED (8:51 a.m. on 11/19/2015)

The Umauma bridge, which was closed the past week along Highway 19, has been reopened.