Heavy rains led to the crest of the dam, the agency said.
“Breaking the dam will produce life-threatening floods as well as significant material damage in areas downstream from the dam,” according to the National Meteorological Service in Honolulu.
Evacuation also occurs at the same time as a flood warning occurs.
“” The state is on standby to support Maui County as residents and visitors downstream of the Kaupakulua dam evacuate at this time. Please stay out of the area until the danger passes and continue to monitor the local media for updates, “Hawaii Governor David Ige said in a statement.
Maui County officials are advising that people near high-flow streams should also evacuate or look for higher ground. Evacuation shelters are being opened at the Paia Community Center and Hana High School.
All of Maui County’s parks are closing for the rest of the day because of heavy rains and floods, the Department of Parks and Recreation announced.
The parks will remain closed until further notice. The parks will be evaluated for reopening on Tuesday.