MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAI’I –On February 9, 2026, severe weather and heavy rain caused the Marine Corps Base Hawai’i (MCBH) Wastewater Reclamation Facility (WRF) to release effluent with bacteria levels that exceeded permit limits. The released effluent mixes with treated effluent from the City and County of Honolulu’s Kailua Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant before it discharges approximately two miles offshore at a depth of 110 feet into the natural mixing zone of the ocean. The risk of direct public exposure to MCBH exceedance is extremely low. However, due to the recent rainfall, on February 9, 2026, the Hawai’i Department of Health issued a brown water advisory across the State of Hawai’i, recommending the public to stay out of the water for 48-72 hours after the rain has stopped and after the beaches have received full sunshine. That advisory is available here: Hawai'i Department of Health Advisory.

In coordination with the Hawai’i Department of Health’s Clean Water Branch, MCBH is continuing daily water sampling to monitor the situation. Increased monitoring will remain in place as MCBH’s effluent quality returns to normal levels.

The WRF at MCBH is actively undergoing extensive upgrades, which will improve resiliency during significant weather events.

MCBH remains committed to environmental stewardship and transparency. We will continue to keep the community informed and updated as we continue to monitor and enhance the resilience of our facilities.