The Maui County Department of Public Works is restricting public access to Kapaakea Cemetery in Kaunakakai on Molokai after heavy rains caused significant ground settlement across multiple burial plots at the cemetery.

Officials said while some settling can occur during periods of rainfall, the extent of the damage is greater than previously experienced. Similar conditions were reported at Molokai Veterans Cemetery, though impacts there were less severe.

The public is being asked to avoid visiting the cemetery while recovery efforts are underway. Families may still access the site to tend to and repair burial plots.

The county will provide cover material to assist with repairs and will help families unable to complete work themselves. Families are encouraged to visit as soon as possible to recover markers, decorations and other personal items before crews begin covering affected plots.

Department crews have already started repairs.

Kapaakea Cemetery is a county-owned facility managed by the Department of Public Works’ Highways Division, which maintains burial records, access roads and vegetation. Families traditionally are responsible for maintaining their own plots.

For more information, call the department’s Molokai District Office at 808-553-3222.