Gov. David Ige issued a disaster declaration for Waimea, Kauaʻi, after a landslide on Jan. 4 blocked Menehune Road — and access to at least two dozen families.
The landslide also cut critical communications infrastructure in the area and damaged the Waimea Swinging Bridge.
Kauaʻi County estimated that it will take at least three weeks to remove all the rockfall hazards above Menehune Road.
The emergency proclamation gives the governor authority to spend state funds on relief efforts.
The disaster period will go through March 7, unless terminated or superseded by a separate proclamation.
“As Menehune Road remains closed, it’s important for us to emphasize that the area is still very dangerous and that rocks are continuing to fall,” Mayor Derek Kawakami said. “For everyone’s safety, please do not go near the area until work is complete and it is deemed safe."
