Hawaiʻi County Encourages Residents to Prepare for Storm Impacts

Hawaiʻi County Encourages Residents to Prepare for Storm Impacts

Residents and visitors should prepare for a powerful storm that could bring strong winds, thunderstorms, and heavy rainfall later this week.

Isolated impacts are forecast through Thursday from the system, known as a Kona low. The most severe impacts are expected from Friday through Sunday, with the possibility of strong, locally damaging winds that can down trees and powerlines and heavy rainfall that can cause flooding.

“The County is working hard to get ready for this powerful storm and keep residents safe,” said Mayor Kimo Alameda. “A storm like this can impact the entire island so we ask everyone to prepare for what this weather system can bring.”

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for Hawaiʻi Island from Wednesday evening through Saturday afternoon. A Flood Watch means conditions are favorable for flooding, but it has not begun.

In addition to isolated thunderstorms, the storm could produce brief and weak tornadoes.

“Some of the models we’ve seen show parts of the island could receive more than 10 inches of rain,” said Talmadge Magno, Civil Defense Administrator. “While some areas can handle these amounts, others will have significant flooding impacts. We’ll be sharing forecast updates as we receive more information and provide direction for actions you will need to take. If you haven’t already done so, now is a great time to sign up for emergency alerts at the Hawai‘i County Civil Defense website to receive updates on your cell phone.”

Preparing Your Property
• Check around your home and trim low-hanging branches that could be downed by the winds and cause damage.
• Secure lanai furniture and other objects that could become airborne in strong, gusty winds.
• Check drainage areas, gutters, and drains to clear any debris that may block water from flowing.
• If your property is prone to flooding, consider placing sandbags to protect foundations, doorways and other vulnerable areas. Consider raising items that may be damaged by flooding to a higher level.
• Check emergency supplies, including food, water and necessary medications for people and pets.
• Be prepared for power outages. Battery-powered light sources are safer than candles or gas lanterns and less likely to start an accidental fire. If you rely on an electrically powered medical device, make sure batteries are charged and have a backup plan.
• Check and refuel electrical generators if you have them and refresh your knowledge of how to safely operate them if needed. Always locate a generator in a well-ventilated area where exhaust can’t blow back into areas occupied by people or pets.

General Safety Information
• Consider changing or delaying plans for travel or outdoor activities during inclement weather, especially routes that have low-lying areas prone to flooding.
• Know the areas that are prone to flooding, particularly those near your home, and use extra caution around them. Heavy rain uphill from your location can cause flooding, even if it’s not raining where you are.
• Never try to cross moving water, on foot or in a vehicle: “Turn around, don’t drown.”
• Monitor local forecasts from reliable sources for the latest information about the storm and its potential hazards. Have a battery- or crank-powered radio to receive information during a power outage. (Don’t forget the car radio.)
• If lightning threatens, the safest place to be is indoors. If you’re in a vehicle, stay in the vehicle, but pull off the road if rain is dangerously heavy and it is safe to pull over.
• Have a “go bag” ready in case you must evacuate the area, especially if your home is in an area prone to flooding. It should include food, water, necessary medication, important documents, and other necessities for the members of your household (including pets) if you need to leave in a hurry.
• Check in with neighbors, especially those who may have mobility problems, to make sure they have a safe way to evacuate if flooding strikes.

Stay Informed

The County will provide updates as conditions evolve. Residents can receive emergency notifications by signing up for Civil Defense alerts at their website at bit.ly/HCCDAlerts.

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