Video special to Hawaii 24/7 by Gary Petrison

UPDATED (8:30 a.m. on 3/13/16)

Hawaii Police Department and State Highways report Mamalahoa Highway (Route 19) in the Wainaku area just outside of Hilo has been reopened to all traffic as of 8:30 a.m. The highway had been closed due to downed utility pole and utility crews were able to address the problem and reopen the roadway. Please drive carefully.

UPDATED (8:10 p.m. on 3/12/2016)
HELCO reports that in the Wainaku to Puueo Paku area most customers have had their power restored. About two customers remain without power as crews work through the night to make repairs.

UPDATED (8:05 p.m. on 3/12/2016)
Some customers are reporting their power being restored.

Original post

Hawaii Police Department and State Highways report Mamalahoa Highway (Route 19) in the Wainaku area immediately north of the Wailuku River Bridge is closed to all traffic due to a downed utility pole.

It is likely that the closure will remain throughout the weekend. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and to use alternate routes if possible. A detour will be maintained through the Wainaku area near the Alae Cemetery in the Honolii area.

Hawaii Electric Light Company reports a power outage from Wainaku to Puueo Paku with crews on scene working to restore services to customers.

Hilo resident Gary Petrison said it appeared that a car crashed into the pole bringing them down.