graphic by BIVN

(BIVN) – The State of Hawaiʻi reported 156 new cases of COVID-19 statewide at 3 p.m. on Wednesday. Of that number, twenty-one (21) cases were identified on Hawaiʻi island.

Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense issued this radio message on Wednesday evening:

On today’s update of COVID-19, the number of new active cases, on Hawaii Island, reported and monitored by the Department of Health is twenty-one (21). At this date, for Hawaii Island, eight (8) are hospitalized. A total of forty-eight (48) deaths have been reported on Hawaii Island. Condolences to their family and friends.

Know that the virus is in our community and we must make every effort to stop the spread. Gatherings associated with the upcoming holidays and the evidence that gatherings contribute to the spread of the virus make it more important than ever to follow the preventive measures of face coverings, distancing, and gatherings of no more than 10 persons. Please accept this kuleana to protect our families, friends and community and to make Hawaii Safe.

Know that the preventive measures are mandated by law and will be enforced by the Hawaii Police Department.

On testing for tomorrow, Thursday, a Spot Test, which is not open to the public, is scheduled in South Kohala at the Ke Kumu Place in Waikoloa Village.

Thank you for listening have a safe day.

On the health department’s zip code area map showing reported COVID-19 cases with onset dates in the past 14 days, the following Hawaiʻi island locations have totals of over 10 cases:

• 96720 (Hilo) – 27 cases
• 96783 (Pepeʻekeo) 27 cases
• 96740 (Kona) – 115 cases
• 96738 (Waikoloa) – 22 cases
• 96743 (Waimea/ Kawaihae) – 11 cases

Also today, the Hawaiʻi State Judiciary announced operational changes are coming soon to the South Kohala District Courthouse in Waimea. From the Judiciary news release:

The South Kohala District Court courtroom will be temporarily closing beginning December 1 for all court hearings, however, the courthouse will remain open for other court services. This temporary closure is due to a shortage of courtroom staff.

All current cases will redirected to the Keahuolu Courthouse in Kona and to the Hale Kaulike Courthouse in Hilo. Judge Mahilani Hiatt will be temporarily transferred to Family Court at the Keahuolu Courthouse.

The Third Circuit Court will make every effort to allow for remote hearings where possible.

The South Kohala District Courthouse will remain open to receive documents, process payments, and for other non-court hearing functions.

“We appreciate the community’s patience and understanding as we work expeditiously to reopen the South Kohala Courthouse,” said Chief Judge Robert D. S. Kim.

Anyone needing assistance may call 808-322-8700 (Keahuolu Courthouse) or 808-961-7470 (Hale Kaulike Courthouse) or email: skohalafc.3cc@courts.hawaii.gov.