Sat Jan 11 00:00:00 UTC 2025: **Hilo’s Pacific Tsunami Museum Faces Closure Amid Financial Crisis**
HILO, HAWAII – The Pacific Tsunami Museum (PTM) in Hilo is facing an existential crisis due to severe financial difficulties. After laying off its entire staff of ten and reducing its operating hours, the museum is struggling to stay afloat. A combination of factors, including a leaking roof, a broken air conditioning system, resulting mildew, and decreased tourism due to the COVID-19 pandemic, has created a major financial strain. Repairs are estimated to cost up to $1 million.
The museum, strategically located on Hilo’s bayfront, plays a crucial role in educating the public about tsunamis, incorporating survivor accounts and commemorating victims of past disasters. Its president, Cindi Preller, who has forgone her own salary, says the museum is currently reliant on weekend volunteers.
The Olsen Trust recently donated $200,000, urging other Hilo businesses to contribute. Museum chair Carol Walker attributes the financial struggles to reduced tourism impacting admissions and the loss of key donors, as well as fading memories of past tsunamis among the community.
Walker emphasized the museum’s importance, highlighting its historical significance, scientific explanations of tsunamis, and dedication to safety education. Preller is also seeking an archivist to preserve the museum’s valuable collection of oral histories from tsunami survivors, crucial for understanding tsunami warning signs. The museum is actively seeking additional funding and investment to secure its future.
First Piper 