Hurricane Lane knocks out power to thousands on Hawaii Island

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KAILUA-KONA — Hawaii Electric Light Co. said thousands of customers on Hawaii Island have experienced power outages amid Hurricane Lane.

About 9,500 customers around the island experienced power outages related to heavy rain and fallen trees, HELCO said Friday afternoon. Electric service has been restored to the majority of these customers.

The company’s emergency response team continues to closely monitor the situation.

Crews are being dispatched to make repairs and restore power when it is safe to do so. However, restoration efforts may be delayed due to hazardous weather and road closures.

“We’d like to remind everyone that downed power lines can be dangerous. It’s important to not approach or touch a downed power line as it may have electricity running through it,” said Kristen Okinaka, public information officer. “If you see a power line on the ground, or hanging low, please stay away and call us to report it.”

To report power outages and downed lines, call 969-6666.