Ige Issues Disaster Declaration for Kauaʻi Landslide

The state will be able to help with relief efforts for families impacted by the Jan. 4 landslide in Waimea following a decision by Gov. David Ige on Friday.

Ige signed an emergency proclamation for the landslide that blocked Menehune Road and isolated at least 24 families who live in the area. The landslide cut off critical communications infrastructure and damaged the historic Swinging Bridge.

“The blocked roadway, hazardous conditions and the lack of communications infrastructure threaten the safety and welfare of a significant number of residents in the area,” Ige said. “This emergency proclamation serves to provide relief from disaster damages and losses, and protect our residents and visitors.”

The emergency proclamation gives the governor authority to spend state funds as appropriated to protect the health, safety and welfare of residents and visitors on Kauaʻi. The declaration supports state and county efforts to provide quick and efficient relief of suffering, damage and losses caused by the landslide.

The hillside above Menehune Road remains unstable and has forced the delay of road repair work because of hazardous conditions caused by falling rocks and other debris.

The disaster emergency relief period continues through March 7 unless terminated or superseded by a separate proclamation.