Chemical odor prompts Honokaa schools to evacuate

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HONOKAA (AP) — A strong chemical odor forced hundreds of public school students in Honokaa to evacuate and go home early.

HONOKAA (AP) — A strong chemical odor forced hundreds of public school students in Honokaa to evacuate and go home early.

The state Department of Education said Thursday hazardous materials investigators traced the odor to a neighbor who was spraying his yard with a mix of chemicals.

About 40 students and 10 adults from Honokaa High and Intermediate reported difficulty breathing and feeling nauseous and dizzy. They were sent to nearby medical centers for treatment.

There were no reports of medical issues at Honokaa Elementary, which is across the street from the high and intermediate school.

Students were sent home about 10:45 a.m. Thursday.

The schools will resume regular schedules Friday. About 600 students attend Honokaa High & Intermediate. Honokaa Elementary enrolls more than 360 students.