Kona Lows Send Mud Floods Threatening Hawaiʻi's Coral Reefs

Kona Low storms dumped mud, sediment and toxins into Hawaiʻi’s coastal waters, smothering nearshore corals and reef fish from Oʻahu to Maui and raising concerns about spawning viability and long‑term recovery as muddied waters linger. Scientists and conservation groups are rushing to assess damage and mobilize rapid-response reef restoration, while officials push for improved runoff management to prevent future harm.