(BIVN) – The Keahuolū Deepwell is now repaired and operational, county officials report.

The Keahuolū well was the fifth water well to fail in West Hawaii, putting North Kona under a Mandatory Water Restriction. That meant water usage was limited to health and safety needs only.

The well, which had been out of service since last Thursday, comes back online ahead of the repair time-line, which was reportedly estimated to finish up this coming Sunday.

“Due to your help, water service was maintained to all users during this emergency,” a civil defense message stated.

However, because four other wells are still being repaired, residents in the affected area are reminded that the mandatory water restriction is still in effect for the North Kona area. “This means everyone must continue to reduce their normal usage by 25 percent,” officials say.

The Department of Water Supply will continue to monitor water use. For more information including schedule of well repairs, and ways to reduce water usage, please visit our website at www.hawaiidws.org or call the Department of Water Supply. During normal business hours – 961-8060.

After-hours and emergencies – 961-8790. Mahalo for your cooperation and understanding.