Post by @brianvastag@mas.to

2026-09-14 02:25 UTC

Hating on governments is fashionable (often for good reason) but I am so, so, so pleased and impressed with the County of Kaua'i's response to Hurricane Lowell. The twice-daily updates are full of important and useful information. The county has knocked down pervasive and malicious rumors. They have kept everyone posted on restoration of power and water. They've clearly stated what is and isn't open. Our mayor, Derek Kawakami, will soon be Hawaii's Lt. Governor and will be in line to run for governor after that if he wants to. He's been fantastic, just as he was throughout the early pandemic. Community response has been great too. I rode the east side bike path yesterday for the first time since the storm and all 5 miles had already been cleared of downed trees. #Lowell #Hawaii #Kauai

Replies (3)

@brianvastag@mas.to 2026-09-14 03:02

Just some other hopeful points to note: - The county waived fees for green waste and opened a large, new green waste dump as everyone deals with the tropical rain forest that got knocked around. - The #scuba community came together and yesterday made a ton of progress clearing the boulders, trees & muck from everyone's favorite shore-diving spot. - National Guard were pre-positioned and have been busy with food and water distribution. - The hospital, port & airport are all up and running. It's only been a week.

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@wil@beige.party 2026-09-14 02:52

@brianvastag@mas.to that's really good to hear.

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@D_Reno@mastodon.social 2026-09-14 21:36

@brianvastag@mas.to I was on disaster relief in Louisiana once, 10 days after a hurricane hit. We went to places that we were the first "official" responders. 10 days Governments are necessary, and they can be good.

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