Hawaiʻi County Urges Preparation Ahead of Storm
The County of Hawai‘i urges residents and visitors to get storm-ready before the arrival of a weather system could bring rain, flooding and strong, gusty winds to parts of Hawai‘i Island this weekend and into Monday.
The greatest chance of heavy rain is expected along the Hāmākua coast, but North Hilo, South Hilo, and Puna could also be affected, forecasts indicate. Strong and gusty trade winds are expected to move in late Sunday and Monday, affecting downslope areas and other places where terrain funnels the wind, such as Kohala, South Point, and the Saddle.
“The public should be ready for what this storm could bring,” said Mayor Kimo Alameda. “Take time before the system arrives to check your property and be prepared.”
The National Weather Service has issued a statewide Flood Watch running from noon Saturday through Monday afternoon for the system. “The front will stall over Maui County this weekend, allowing deep tropical moisture to pool over the island chain. This in combination with a disturbance aloft moving over the state, will bring the potential for heavy rainfall, a few thunderstorms and flash flooding,” NWS reported.
The soil is relatively dry across Hawai‘i Island, allowing light rainfall to soak in quickly, but the approaching system could generate locally heavy rain, potentially causing flash-flooding in low-lying areas and drainages. Wind and rain also can make travel hazardous on a weekend with many planned events, including Super Bowl parties.
“The County has already started coordinating preparations ahead of the storm, and we’ll update the public as conditions change,” said Talmadge Magno, Civil Defense Administrator. “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.”
Facility Impacts
As a result of the storm, the County Parks and Recreation Department has cancelled camping permits and day-use pavilion permits for Sunday at Spencer Park at ʻŌhai’ula Beach and Laupāhoehoe Point Beach Park. Camping permits at Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area have also been cancelled for Sunday.
General Safety Information
- Consider changing or delaying plans for travel or outdoor activities during inclement weather, including routes that have low-lying areas prone to flooding.
- Know the areas that are prone to flooding, especially 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.
- 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
