UPDATE (9:53 a.m.) The Hawaii Police Department reports that Highway 19 or Mamalahoa Highway in the area of Iokua Place or 55 mile mark in Waimea is now open to one lane of traffic only. The highway had been closed due to a motor vehicle accident. Utility crews are on scene and are working to replace a downed pole. Motorists are advised to expect delays and to avoid the area and to use alternate routes if possible

WAIMEA, Hawaii – Both Hawaii County Police and Hawaii County Civil Defense are reporting that a motor vehicle accident on Highway 19 near the 55 mile post has closed the highway in all directions.

According to a Hawaii County Civil Defense alert:

HCCD

“The Hawaii Police Department reports that Highway 19 or Mamalahoa Highway in the area of Iokua Place or 55 mile mark in Waimea is closed to all traffic at this time due to a motor vehicle accident involving a tractor trailer truck. Emergency crews are on scene. It is unknown at this time when the road will be reopened. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and to use alternate routes if possible.”

Readers point out that this is on the Hilo side of Waimea.

Authorities say avoid the area and use alternate routes if possible.

Police issued another update at 8:11 a.m. via Nixle:

Hawaii County Police

“Hawaii Police Dept. advises you to AVOID Hwy 19/Puu Nani St. (54 mm) due to a traffic accident in which a utility pole and electrical wires are on the road. A vehicle crash near Hwy 19/Puu Nani St. (54 mm) has closed Highway 19 and will require a detour of traffic for the next 5 hours. Traffic is being rerouted through Mana Rd. and Mealani Rd. please drive slowly and carefully as this is a one lane road.”

Civil Defense says the detour is limited to light vehicle traffic only and no commercial trucks or heavy equipment. The detour will be slow, and there will be significant delays.