HONOLULU — Heavy rains from Hurricane Hone have caused the Hawaii Department of Health to issue Brown Water Advisories for Maui’s coastlines.
The department advises beachgoers to stay out of water that appears brown or murky, especially following storms or heavy rains, as these can cause higher-than-normal pollutant levels in the water.
Hawaii DOH recommends people stay out of the water for 48 to 72 hours after the rain has stopped and the beach has received full sunshine.
Advisories were issued for the following areas on Maui from late afternoon through Monday night:
- DT Fleming Beach Park
- Hanakaoo Beach Park
- Kahana Village
- Puamana to Papalaua
- Maalaea to McGregor Point
- Uwapo Road to Cove Park
- Waihee to Kahului Harbor
Hawaii DOH also advises the public to avoid swimming, wading in or drinking water from freshwater streams or ponds to prevent leptospirosis, a bacterial infection caused by the Leptospira bacteria.