Hawaiian Electric reports over 88,000 power outages as Hurricane Lala sweeps islands

Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO) confirmed that Hurricane Lala has left over 88,000 customers without power across the Hawaiian archipelago. The storm’s strong winds and heavy rain forced four independent power producers on Hawaii Island to disconnect from the grid, prompting HECO to consider temporary load shedding to protect the system.

On the Big Island, about 63,270 customers remain without electricity, including the east and south sides, Waimea and Honokaa. Wind gusts near 90 mph have toppled trees and knocked down poles along a 42-mile stretch of transmission lines on the Hamakua coast, delaying repairs. Maui County reports roughly 15,260 outages affecting West Maui, parts of Upcountry, South Maui and Haiku, with wind gusts often exceeding 80 mph. Oahu has about 9,500 customers without power in neighborhoods such as Aina Haina, Ewa Beach, Kaimuki and Kalihi after a major transmission line and several sub-lines were damaged.

"Trees and debris blown into power lines are the primary cause of the current outages," HECO officials said.

The utility has restored power to more than 42,000 customers since Saturday, including 20,240 on the Big Island and 730 in Maui County. However, crews warn that restoration may take longer in heavily damaged areas and that some outages could extend overnight. Customers are urged to stay indoors, keep emergency supplies ready and monitor HECO’s outage maps and mobile app for updates.