Kauai Officials Warn Price Gouging Illegal Amid Kona Storm Emergency

With the Kona low battering Kauaʻi and states of emergency in effect from both Gov. Josh Green and Mayor Derek Kawakami, county officials are warning that any business caught inflating prices on essentials faces fines of up to $10,000 per violation under state law.

The County of Kauaʻi has already received reports of price gouging as residents cope with the prolonged storm. Under Section 127A-30 of the Hawai'i Revised Statutes, it is unlawful for any business to increase the price of any commodity in an area subject to an emergency proclamation or severe weather warning whenever a state of emergency is declared by the governor or the mayor. "Price gouging during a state of emergency is prohibited," county officials stated.

The financial consequences for violators are specific and significant. "Price gouging constitutes unfair methods of competition and unfair and deceptive acts or practices under state law," the county stated. "Any person, firm, company, association, or corporation violating any of the provisions of Section 480-2, HRS, shall be fined a sum of not less than $500 nor more than $10,000 for each violation."

Anyone who believes they have been subjected to price gouging can file a complaint directly with the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs at web2.dcca.hawaii.gov/ocpcomplaint.

The price gouging warnings come as the storm continues to strain infrastructure across the island. Water levels are elevated along Kūhiō Highway near the Hanalei Bridge, and officials warn the roadway may close with little or no advance notice, particularly if a Flash Flood Warning is issued. First responders are on scene at the Wailua River, where levels have risen overnight and are being closely monitored.

The severity of the storm prompted sweeping closures statewide on Friday: all public and charter schools, every University of Hawaiʻi campus, state and county offices except essential services, the judiciary, all state parks, and all state public libraries through Sunday. On Kailua Road, wet driving conditions were visible throughout the day as the Kona low continued to push heavy rain and wind across the island.

County officials are urging Kauaʻi residents to stay vigilant on both fronts: watch conditions carefully as river levels and road closures can change without warning, and report any suspected price gouging so that enforcement action can follow.