April 9, 2015

SOUTH KONA AREA
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR DRINKING WATER
FOR CONSUMERS ON SODIUM RESTRICTED DIETS
KE’EI WELL “D” ELECTRICAL ISSUES

The Department of Water Supply’s Ke’ei Well D began experiencing electrical issues on April 6, 2015. As a result, one of our backup wells, Ke’ei Well C, was activated on April 7, 2015, to supplement and provide for the daily water needs of the South Kona water system. At this time, Ke’ei Well D is still being used to supply water to portions of the water system. These backup wells have sodium levels that are higher than Ke’ei Well D, thus the reason for this notice. Initial indications point to possible electrical issues; however, further investigation is scheduled.

For most individuals, drinking water supplies only a small percentage of their daily sodium intake, and is therefore not a concern. For persons on sodium-restricted diets however, drinking water could supply a significant percentage of their daily sodium intake. Those that are undergoing treatment for sodium-sensitive hypertension (high blood pressure) are encouraged to consult their health care provider regarding the sodium levels in the drinking water.

The latest information on sodium levels for the Ke’ei Wells are as follows:

Sodium (mg/L) Sample date
Ke’ei Well B 180 7/21/14
Ke’ei Well C 34 7/21/14
Ke’ei Well D (normally in use) 13 7/21/14

The areas provided with water from the Ke’ei Wells include:
1. Portions of Mamalahoa Highway from Napo’opo’o Road, south to Ho’okena;
2. Middle Ke’ei Road from Mamalahoa Highway to the intersection with Napo’opo’o Road;
3. Painted Church Road, and;
4. Keala O Keawe Road, from Mamalahoa Highway to Pu’uhonua O Honaunau.

The water from the Ke’ei Wells B, C, and D meet all enforceable drinking water standards, and is therefore safe to drink. If you reside in the areas defined above and are concerned about the elevated levels of sodium, you should consult your personal physician. At this time, the duration for using the backup Ke’ei wells is undetermined, however, additional updates will be provided as information is obtained.

DEPARTMENT OF WATER SUPPLY
COUNTY OF HAWAI’I

The Department of Water Supply is an Equal Opportunity provider and employer.

Posted on the Internet at:
http://www.hawaiidws.org
(WHT743625 4/12, 4/14/15)~