WAIMEA — A landslide that closed off a portion of Menehune Road near the Waimea swinging bridge has closed the road and bridge until further notice.
Rubble from the hillside covered the narrow road, damaged the bridge and knocked out power and water service to a handful of families that live beyond the point.
The landslide was reported around 7:30 a.m., according to the Kaua‘i Police Department.
Slope assessment using drones to analyze the area began yesterday afternoon. The county’s Department of Public Works Roads Division was on-site Tuesday to clear the roadway, but had to cease operations when more debris became loose.
Rockfall-mitigation contractors are expected on-site today to begin slope-stabilization work, according to officials.
“We are working diligently to open this roadway and restore utilities to affected residents as soon as possible, but safety is our highest priority,” Mayor Derek Kawakami said in a statement.
Kawakami later in the day signed an emergency proclamation as a result of the landslide.
“We have multiple agencies working together at this time. We wish to thank the Department of Public Works crews, Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative, Kaua‘i Department of Water, American Red Cross and our first responders for assisting in this effort,” Kawakami said. “Additionally, we thank the residents for their patience and cooperation while work continues.”
The ARC opened up an emergency shelter at the Waimea Neighborhood Center for affected families and individuals. Affected residents are urged to avoid the dangerous conditions. Anyone needing emergency access during the closure should call 911.
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Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
