County of Kauaʻi urges vigilance during severe weather

Residents should prepare for periods of intense rainfall, rising streams, and localized flooding, along with gusty winds and unstable weather conditions as the storm system develops later in the week.

According to the National Weather Service, a powerful Kona storm will bring a prolonged period of hazardous weather to Kaua‘i through the weekend. Periods of moderate to heavy rain may lead to significant flash flooding, especially as saturated ground conditions increase the risk of runoff and flooding even with steady rainfall.

Repeated rounds of showers and thunderstorms are expected, with some storms potentially becoming strong to severe from Friday through Saturday.

In addition, strengthening southwesterly Kona winds could produce damaging gusts, particularly along north- and east-facing mountain areas, with the potential for downed trees, blocked roadways, and power outages.

Standard tips to prepare for power outages from Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative include:

• 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 Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative at 808-246-4300 to update your contact information and receive alerts.

Unsettled wet weather with continued southwest winds may persist into early next week before conditions gradually improve as the storm system lifts north of the islands.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources has closed Polihale State Park and Hā‘ena State Park as well as all parking lots within Koke‘e State Park until further notice. Overnight camping at Koke‘e State Park has also been suspended until further notice. 

County facilities and services may close with little to no notice and there are no road closures at this time.

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.

The Department of Health Clean Water Branch has issued a Brown Water Advisory for the island of Kaua‘i. The Hawai‘i State Department of Health advises beach users to stay out of waters when the water appears brown or murky, especially following storms or heavy rain.

The Ocean Safety Bureau advises no swimming or ocean activities for the island of Kauai, due to a brown water advisory.

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. Know before you go.

No refuge areas have been opened at this time. However, refuge areas islandwide are on standby, should the need arise. 

For up-to-date information about Kaua‘i ocean conditions and safety, please speak to a county lifeguard, visit Ocean Safety Bureau website.

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

To stay updated, stay tuned to local media broadcast channels for the most up-to-date information, or sign up for the Wireless Emergency Notification System, the county’s emergency notification service, on the Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency website.

Important phone numbers for emergency preparedness are listed below:

• To report non-emergency road hazards, contact Kauaʻi Police Department non-emergency number at 808-241-1711, only call 9-1-1 for emergencies
• For road and closure conditions, call 808-241-1725
• For the National Weather Service automated weather line, call 808-245-6001
• For the Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency, call 808-241-1800.