Mahukona Closed…Shelters Open….Hawaiʻi County Opens Shelters, Urges Preparedness as Storm Approaches
Hawaiʻi County Opens Shelters, Urges Preparedness as Storm Approaches
The County of Hawaiʻi announces that several shelters opened Thursday in anticipation of severe weather. An approaching storm system is expected to bring heavy rainfall and high winds, and residents are urged to take precautions.
Seven emergency shelters are currently open, with a total of 11 available. Additional shelters will be opened and staffed as needed.
- Waimea Community Center
- Nāʻālehu Community Center
- Robert N. Herkes Gym
- Yano Hall
- Kekuaokalani Gym
- Keaʻau Armory
- Pāhoa Neighborhood Facility
The following facilities are closed due to storm impacts:
- Mahukona Wharf
- Carvalho Park
- Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens
- Keaʻau Armory (closed for normal daily activities but remains open for a shelter)
- Pāhoa Pool
Camping Closures: All County campsites are closed until further notice to ensure public safety
Storm Impacts & Timeline
- Peak Impacts: Thursday night through Friday Tonight morning, with conditions improving by Saturday morning.
- Heavy Rain & Flooding: Rapidly accumulating rainfall may cause flash flooding. Avoid flooded roadways—Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
- High Winds: Sustained winds of 30-40 mph with gusts up to 60 mph, particularly in higher elevations.
- Snow on Summits: Up to 2 feet of snow is expected at higher mountain elevations.
- Severe Weather Potential: brief and weak tornadoes are possible with this system.
- Marine Hazards: The U.S. Coast Guard reminds boaters to secure their moorings and prepare for hazardous seas.
Safety & Emergency Response
- Downed Power Lines & Trees: Do not approach or attempt to move downed power lines. Assume they are live and report them immediately. Exercise caution with fallen trees and debris.
- Lightning Safety: When thunder roars, go indoors. Seek shelter immediately during thunderstorms.
- Travel Precautions: Travelers should check with their airlines and transportation providers for potential delays or cancellations.
Public Caution & Preparedness
Residents and visitors should take the following steps to stay safe:
- Secure outdoor furniture and loose items that could become airborne in high winds.
- Avoid unnecessary travel during peak storm impacts.
- Charge cell phones and keep flashlights and emergency supplies readily available.
- Stay informed through official updates from Civil Defense and the National Weather Service.
First Responder & Community Safety
Emergency personnel will be actively responding throughout the storm, and residents are urged to prioritize their safety by avoiding hazardous areas. If you encounter emergency responders or road crews, please allow them space to operate safely.
