COUNTY ANNOUNCES INTERACTIVE HAZARD MAP AHEAD OF POTENTIAL STORM

COUNTY ANNOUNCES INTERACTIVE HAZARD MAP AHEAD OF POTENTIAL STORM
Hawaiʻi County announces the creation of an interactive hazard map to provide the public with real-time
information relating to natural hazards on Hawaiʻi Island. Managed by the Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense
Administration, the map is available online, accessible on any smart device, and is free to use. Information on
the map will be updated year-round and in real-time of any emergency or impending hazard. Hazard
notifications on the interactive map include road closures, public facility closures, active shelters, active fires,
active flooding, and utility outages.
The announcement of the hazard map comes in time for the sub-tropic cyclone or Winter Kona Low storm that is
expected to onset tonight and strengthen through the weekend. The storm poses the potential for widespread
heavy rain, thunderstorms, damaging winds, large north-northwest swells, and significant flooding into next
week. In addition, there are high surf, high wind, and blizzard warnings currently in effect for Hawaiʻi Island.
“We hope that this new tool will empower our residents and help them and their families thrive through any
emergency situation on our island,” said Mayor Mitch Roth. “In emergencies, every minute counts, and that is
why we are excited to offer a reliable source of information that will be available in real-time, so when we know
it, the public will know it too. A well-informed community is a safe community. That said, we ask that everyone
be mindful this weekend and do what they can to stay informed and avoid any dangerous situations that the
impending storm may cause.”
The County encourages residents in flood-prone areas to make preparations before the onset of the heavy rains
and secure loose outdoor items for strong winds. Coastal property and boat owners should also secure property
before the surf arrives. Residents are urged to remain indoors when lightning occurs.
To utilize the interactive hazard map, visit today. Other ways to remain informed through
times of emergency are by listening to island radio stations or signing up for Civil Defense emergency messages
on the Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense website.