Damage assessments underway following Hawaii Island M6.0 earthquake

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – State, county and federal officials are assessing damage from last month’s Kona earthquake on Hawaii Island.

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The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and Hawaii County are conducting a joint preliminary damage assessment following the magnitude-6.0 earthquake that struck May 22 near Honaunau-Napoopoo on the western flank of Mauna Loa.

Officials said the assessment will help validate reports of damage to homes, infrastructure and community systems, and determine whether federal disaster assistance may be warranted.

The earthquake triggered several road closures and landslides, including along Highway 11 between Captain Cook and Ocean View, as well as Napoopoo Road in Captain Cook.

Initial reports from Hawaii County indicate damage to residential structures, water catchment systems and public facilities. County officials have said some of the hardest-hit communities may have recovery needs that exceed local capabilities.

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“HIEMA is working closely with FEMA and Hawaii County to document the full scope of damage and ensure the impacts to our communities are clearly understood,” said HIEMA Administrator James Barros. “This assessment helps inform recovery decisions and ensures we are advocating for the support communities may need.”

Assessment teams will work with county personnel to review damaged areas, verify field reports and gather information needed to support recovery planning.

Officials noted that a joint preliminary damage assessment does not automatically lead to a federal disaster declaration, but is an important step in determining whether additional assistance may be available.

Residents and businesses in affected areas are encouraged to continue reporting residential and commercial damage through Hawaii County’s established reporting process as recovery efforts continue.

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For more information or to register for resources, visit www.ready.hawaii.gov.