(BIVN) – The Department of Water Supply has issued an emergency water status for all areas makai of Leilani Estates.

“This is due to the main water lines being impacted by lava activity,” civil defense reported. “All residences in the Kapoho area will be affected by this water shortage. Water spigots have been installed ear the entrance of Lava Tree State Park and a water tanker has been placed in Vacationland for public access.”

Keith Okamoto, the Manager-Chief Engineer for the Department of Water Supply, addressed the situation during Friday night’s public meeting on the eruption held in Pahoa.

In addition, the Hawaii Electric Light Company reports that power has been interrupted to the Leilani Estates Subdivision due to lava affecting power lines.

HELCO issued this media release Saturday:

Hawai‘i Electric Light wants to remind the community that electricity can be dangerous and electrical safety should never be taken for granted.

“Utility equipment has been damaged by lava in the Leilani Estates subdivision,” said company spokesperson Rhea Lee-Moku. “Company employees are unable to enter restricted areas to restore power or confirm problems with electrical service. Everyone should treat lines, transformers, and other utility equipment as energized even if the equipment is on the ground.”

Stay away from downed or low hanging power lines. Assume they are energized and dangerous. If you see someone injured after touching a downed power line, call 9-1-1 for help.

When using a portable generator, carefully read and follow instructions in the manufacturer’s manual. Do not plug the generator into your household electrical outlets. Generators, if used improperly, can cause back-feed into the electric grid and be dangerous for utility workers as well as your neighbors.

Hawai‘i Electric Light’s free “Handbook for Emergency Preparedness” provides detailed information on preparing your home and ‘ohana for emergency situations. The handbook is available in English, Cantonese, Ilocano, Korean, and Vietnamese and can be found at the company’s business offices, on its website or by calling 327-0543.