MEDIA RELEASE

Weather Review
On April 17, 2012, the U.S. Drought Monitor reported no change in drought conditions from those of last week. A total of 60.07 percent of land area was rated as being in some stage of drought. The seasonal drought outlook for Hawaii from April 19, 2012 through July 31, 2012 was updated, showing drought conditions are likely to persist or intensify for leeward areas in Hawaii and Maui Counties.

Hawaii County
The past week was relatively dry, with light intermittent rains in windward areas and few scattered showers in select leeward areas. Light precipitation fell over most windward areas throughout the week, most consistently in the Puna district. There was also plenty of sun, which resulted in continued healthy growth. Leeward areas did not fare as well, with very little rain, bringing no relief to drought- stricken areas. The exception was in the Honaunau/Kealakekua area, which received scattered light rains throughout the week, and crops there were visibly benefitting. The Waimea Irrigation System’s water level was marked at 50.00 feet (51.7 million gallons) on Monday, April 23, 2012, up 1.00 foot or 2 percent from the reading taken April 16, 2012. Conservation status remained unrestricted.

Maui County
The weather for Maui continued to be mostly sunny with brief passing showers, which occur mainly over windward areas. Farmers and ranchers were concerned about maintaining irrigation water supplies and forage growth for livestock. Some areas received fair amounts of rainfall over the past couple of weeks; however pasture conditions were declining overall. As the summer months approach, precipitation typically decreases and this was the cause for concern. Currently most sectors of production have been able to maintain by adjusting their practices. The Molokai Irrigation System water level was marked at 16.25 feet (357.5 million gallons) on Monday, April 23, 2012, a drop of 0.25 foot from the reading taken on Monday April 16, 2012. Mandatory 30 percent water conservation measures were in effect for all non-homestead users.

Honolulu County
Very little precipitation fell on Oahu during the first part of the week, with rain gage stations recording none or trace amounts of rainfall. Intermittent showers on Sunday broke this trend and provided some relief to parched areas. The Waimanalo Irrigation System water level was marked at 50.75 feet (40.0 million gallons) on Monday, April 23, 2012, up 1.00 foot or 2 percent from the reading taken on the previous Monday. A voluntary 10percent water conservation status was in effect.

Kauai County
A sunny and dry week on Kauai ended with an island-wide average rainfall of 0.45 inch. Despite the small amount of rainfall received, no areas in Kauai have been rated as having drought present.

Agricultural Highlights

Orchards and Vegetables
More rain was needed for non-irrigated crop areas as April precipitation totals were well below the historic averages across all islands.

Livestock and Pasture
Overall pasture conditions declined as the very dry weather persisted.