KONA, Hawaii: Backup sources for the failed Queen Liliuokalani Trust Well are on line, and water tank levels have stabilized, but North Kona water customers remain on water restriction until June 1, 2012.

The Department of Water Supply explains in this mnews release:

On Monday of this week, the Department of Water supply reported the QLT Well in North Kona above Mamalahoa Highway failed. As a result, water storage dropped, and remaining sources of the system were unable to keep up with normal demand. North Kona customers were immediately issued a water restriction notice, and were advised to restrict water consumption to essential use only. Water restriction means a 25% reduction in daily water use.

At this time, backup sources are on line, and water tank levels have stabilized. Though the system has water, north Kona water customers remain on water restriction until June 1, 2012. It is by this date that the spare pump for the QLT Well is expected to be fully operational. Customers on restriction are in the following areas:

• Ka‘iminani Street, Hinalani Street and upper Palani Street including all side streets and subdivisions off of these roads
• Along Mamalahoa Highway from Keopu Heights to Kona Ocean View/Pu‘ukala including all side streets and subdivisions off of these roads
• Along Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway from north of Kealakehe Parkway to Keahole Airport including NELHA, Keahole Ag Park, all commercial/industrial areas, side streets, and subdivisions off of these roads.

At this time, due to the current status of the North Kona water system, the following advisory is in effect: water spigots off fire hydrants are set up for customers to access water during this emergency in the vicinity of Kealakehe Parkway mauka of the West Hawaii Civic Center and at the intersection of Keanalehu Street and Puohulihuli Street above Kealakehe High School.

Again, The Department of Water Supply reports the QLT Well in North Kona is down. Although back up sources have stabilized the system, customers in the affected area are advised to restrict water use by 25% until June 1, 2012 when the spare pump is expected to be fully operational. You will be informed as information becomes available.

If you need additional information or have emergency needs, please call 961-8790. Your cooperation is needed and appreciated.