An emergency water restriction was issued today for North Kona residents because of a pump shutdown at the Honokohau deep well.

Hawaii County urged North Kona customers to immediately restrict water use to health and safety needs — such as drinking, cooking, and hygiene purposes. The county also requested a halt to irrigation activities and the washing of vehicles and boats. Residents were advised to save water by flushing toilets less often and taking shorter showers.

The county said the cause of a pump failure this morning at the deep well was being investigated. It was unknown how long repairs would take.

“Without everyone’s cooperation, there will be areas that will experience periodic loss of water service or lower water pressures,” a county statement said.

Adjustments have been made to provide a minimal level of service.

The Department of Water Supply was suspending temporary service accounts and irrigation accounts in North Kona until further notice.

The department will also restrict specific accounts due to excessive water use, the county said.

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