Maui Begins Debris Removal from 2023 Wildfires

WAILUKU, Hawaii — On Monday, June 16, 2025, crews started moving 400,000 tons of nonhazardous debris from the Temporary Debris Storage (TDS) site in Olowalu to the Permanent Disposal Site (PDS) in Central Maui. This operation marks a significant step in Maui’s recovery from the devastating wildfires that struck in 2023.

The transport involves around 50 trucks that will make approximately four round trips daily for an estimated five months. Days of operations will run seven days a week during daylight hours, ensuring that the cleanup proceeds swiftly while minimizing disruption.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers coordinated with the County of Maui, Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the State of Hawaii Department of Health to execute the project. The trucks will travel a 19-mile route using Honoapi‘ilani Highway (HI-30) and Kūihelani Highway (HI-380), among others.

Before being loaded onto the trucks, the debris will be lightly wetted for dust control and wrapped in industrial plastic sheeting. Officials emphasize that the debris is nonhazardous and does not pose a risk to public health.

The decision to remove debris swiftly was made due to concerns that some materials could contain elevated levels of contaminants like arsenic and lead, which can pose health risks. However, thorough testing prior to the transfer confirmed that the risk has been managed effectively, with no harmful substances detected at concerning levels.

Local residents are advised to expect slower traffic during the hauling process and should plan for extra travel time, particularly during peak hours. Signs and a temporary traffic signal have been implemented near the TDS site to assist in safe transitions onto the highway.

Debris removal operations are federally funded and must conclude by the year-end as stipulated in the agreement between the County of Maui and FEMA. The project is part of a comprehensive effort to restore the impacted areas and support the community through its recovery journey.