| The County of Hawaiʻi will return to normal operations on Tuesday as storm impacts are forecast to weaken later today, but the public is urged to remain cautious as some areas could still see heavy rainfall and strong winds.
The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch statewide and a High Wind Warning for areas of Hawaiʻi Island – including Kohala, North Kona and Kaʻū – until 6 p.m. today. A High Surf Warning for east-facing shores is in effect until 6 a.m. Tuesday, with waves up to 15 feet and strong currents expected.
Non-essential County operations, including parks and solid waste facilities, remain closed today. All services are scheduled to resume Tuesday.
“While the forecast shows storm impacts diminishing today, there is still a potential for localized flooding and strong winds,” said Mayor Kimo Alameda. “As we prepare to return to normal operations on Tuesday, the public should continue to exercise caution and stay off the roads unless necessary. The ground remains saturated, with some areas of Hilo and Hāmākua seeing more than 10 inches of rain, and it may not take much more rainfall to cause flooding or landslides.”
Shelters
- All shelters will be closed as of noon today.
Road Closures
- Waipio Valley Road, closed until 8 a.m. Tuesday. Access for valley residents and farmers only.
Hele-On Routes
The following bus routes are cancelled today: 1, 2, 10, 12, 60, 75, 76, 80, 90 and 301. Normal bus operations are scheduled to resume on Tuesday.
Report Damages
The County is gathering information on assistance needed and property damage sustained from the storm. For emergency medical or other needs that threaten life or safety, please call 9-1-1.
If you need assistance because of the storm’s effects, please complete a Request for Assistance on the Hawai`i County Civil Defense Agency website at https://bit.ly/HICivilDefense and follow the link to “Request for Assistance.”
If you sustained property damage from the storm, please report it to Civil Defense via the website at https://bit.ly/HICivilDefense and follow the links to “Residential Damage Report” or “Commercial Damage Report.”
If you are unable to file a report online, call Civil Defense at (808) 935-0031 to report damage or request assistance. |
