UPDATE: County advises public on safe practices for potential severe weather conditions coming to Kauaʻi

Update at 3 p.m. Friday, Jan. 2: County of Kaua‘i officials are urging the public to be vigilant due to potential severe weather conditions beginning this weekend and continuing into next week.

The National Weather Service forecasts a period of unsettled weather with the potential for heavy rain and thunderstorms that could lead to flash flooding.

A Kona low is expected to develop north of Kaua‘i Saturday night, pass northwest of the islands on Sunday, and drift westward on Monday. During this time, moist and unstable southeast to south winds will bring a threat of heavy, persistent showers and thunderstorms to all islands, with lingering moisture likely keeping conditions rather showery into early next week.

County, state, and federal officials will continue to monitor the situation and actively coordinate in preparation for this potential event.

Officials note that Kūhiō Highway near the Hanalei Bridge may be closed with little or no advance notice, particularly if a Flash Flood Warning is issued. Utilities and other services may also be disrupted.

To check on the status of roads and closures, call 808-241-1725, and to report non-emergency road hazards, contact the Kauaʻi Police Department non-emergency dispatch at 808-241-1711. For weather information, call the National Weather Service automated line at 808-245-6001, or visit www.weather.gov/hfo.

Officials remind the public to use 9-1-1 only for life-threatening or time-critical emergencies. Calls to 9-1-1 for weather updates or general road conditions can significantly delay emergency response.

The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative has also issued tips to prepare for power outages such as:

• Use surge protectors to protect your appliances and equipment;
• Turn off and unplug all unnecessary appliances or equipment;
• Keep a portable battery-powered radio and flashlights with extra batteries;
• Stay away from downed lines and report to 9-1-1;
• Contact the Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative at 808-246-4300 to update contact information and receive alerts

The public is advised to check conditions before venturing out for hiking, river, or beach excursions. River and stream crossings, recreational trails, and other outdoor recreation areas may quickly become hazardous.

During severe weather, emergency rescues may not be possible. Do not cross swollen rivers or streams; always check with a lifeguard at any lifeguard station before entering the ocean.

For up-to-date information about Kaua‘i ocean conditions and safety, speak to a county lifeguard, or call the Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4984.

To sign up for the Wireless Emergency Notification System, the county’s emergency notification service, visit the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency website, or call 808-241-1800.

Original at 1:24 p.m. Friday, Jan. 2: A flood watch is issued for the Hawaiian Islands starting late Saturday night through Monday afternoon.

According to the National Weather Service in Honolulu, a kona low will develop north of Kaua‘i Saturday night and pass northwest of the islands on Sunday before drifting to the west on Monday. During this time, moist and unstable southeast to south winds will bring a threat of heavy showers and thunderstorms to all islands.

On the Big Island and Maui, the greatest flood risk will be on the southeast slopes.

Flood-prone roads and other low-lying areas may be closed due to elevated runoff and overflowing streams. Urban areas may receive more significant flooding and property damage due to rapid runoff. Significant flooding may occur due to the overflow of streams and drainages.

Roads in several areas may be closed, along with property damage in urban or low-lying spots due to runoff. Landslides may also occur in areas with steep terrain.