Central Maui drivers got an unwelcome surprise Saturday night when fast-moving water forced the shutdown of Kuihelani Highway in both directions, bringing traffic near Kahului and the Maui Lani area to a standstill. Police threw up roadblocks between Honoapiilani Highway and Maui Lani Parkway and urged motorists to steer clear.
maui #hitraffic #hiwx 3/21/26 7:08PM: Kuihelani HIghway in both directions between Honoapiilani Highway and Maui Lani Parkway is being closed by MPD because of fast moving water, per Maui County. Please avoid the area.
— Hawaii DOT (@DOTHawaii) March 22, 2026
Official Alert And Timing
According to Hawaii DOT, the Maui Police Department closed Kuihelani Highway at about 7:08 p.m. on March 21 because of fast-moving water and told drivers to avoid the area. The information in the post was attributed to Maui County.
Turn Around, Don't Drown
The National Weather Service warns that as little as six inches of fast-moving water can knock an adult off their feet, and between one and two feet of rushing water can carry a vehicle downstream. Its "Turn Around, Don't Drown" campaign reminds drivers that barricades and incident signs are there for a reason and are not suggestions.
Where To Check For Updates
For official closure notices and word on when the highway reopens, drivers should check the County of Maui. On the road, motorists are urged to follow police directions at the scene, build in extra travel time, and stick to alternate routes until authorities say the highway is clear.
If you come across a flooded roadway, do not try to drive through it, since even shallow, fast-moving water can sweep a vehicle away. Expect delays around Kahului while crews keep an eye on conditions and officials sort out when it is safe to reopen the route.
