Elementary school classes resume today, official says
Classes at Hanalei Elementary School will resume today, according to a staff member with the Kaua'i complex area superintendent's office.
The school was closed yesterday because the town of Hanalei was without water from 5 p.m. Sunday until yesterday morning. The shortage was caused by a malfunctioning pump for the Kaua'i Department of Water's Hanalei tank.
A backup supply of water from nearby Princeville wasn't available because the connecting line was broken and had to be repaired, a Department of Water spokeswoman said.
The department also has issued a "boil water notice" for all customers in Hanalei.
As the empty water storage tanks are being refilled, turbulence may occur, causing dirty water in the pipelines, a county news release said.
To ensure that the tap water is safe to use, Hanalei residents should boil their water for five minutes and allow it to cool before using it, the department said. Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the water.
Only boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes and food preparation, the department said.
The department said it will issue a notice when it is no longer necessary to boil water.