Hawaii Issues Brown Water Advisories Following Heavy Storms

Hawaii Issues Brown Water Advisories Following Heavy Storms

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Stormwater runoff triggers widespread health alerts

Heavy rainfall across Hawaii this week triggered widespread brown water advisories, prompting the Hawaii State Department of Health to warn residents and visitors to steer clear of affected coastal and inland waters due to health hazards.

Bacteria levels spike past safe thresholds on Oahu

Since Tuesday, October 27, 2026, state health officials have issued advisories for multiple areas where stormwater runoff has altered water clarity and safety. Compounding those concerns, the department reported on Thursday, October 29, that the bacteria threshold at Pounders Beach on Oahu has exceeded the safe beach threshold level.

Pollutants and debris flood island coastlines

When heavy storms sweep through the islands, runoff frequently carries high concentrations of pollutants into the ocean. The resulting murky, brown water signals an environment that may be more polluted than normal.

Department of Health issues total avoidance warning

The Hawaii State Department of Health urges the public to avoid floodwaters and stormwater runoff entirely. These environments harbor hazards, including overflowing cesspools, sewer, manholes, pesticides, animal fecal matter, dead animals, pathogens, chemicals and associated flood debris.

Hawaii state department of health logo state of

Simple rule enforced: if the water is brown, stay out

While stormwater runoff may not affect all coastal areas, health officials stress a simple rule: if the water is brown, stay out. Beyond coastal beaches, residents must avoid swimming, wading, or drinking from freshwater streams and ponds.

Risk of leptospirosis and tracking real-time updates

Such exposure carries a risk of contracting leptospirosis, a bacterial infection caused by the Leptospira bacteria. Detailed guidance on the infection is maintained by the Hawaii State Department of Health.

The status of ongoing advisories and a list of impacted waters can be tracked directly through the DOH Clean Water Branch System website.

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