Kauaʻi County: What you need to know about Tropical Storm Lala

Tropical Storm Lala has been upgraded to a Hurricane Watch for Kauaʻi County and is getting stronger as it heads toward the Hawaiian Islands. Here is what you need to know on Kauaʻi and Niʻihau.

This information will be regularly updated.

County services and facilities

There are no closures at this time. However, Kauaʻi County services and facilities may close with little to no notice, depending on the severity of the incoming storm and its effects.

Road closures/conditions

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.

Refuge areas

The county may open potential refuge areas across the island if forecasts and conditions warrant.

The Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency released an updated potential refuge area list in May, which available online at www.kauai.gov/kema. It identifies facilities that may be considered for use during emergencies.

Not every facility on the list will be opened during every emergency, and additional public or private facilities may also be activated depending on incident and operational needs. If refuge areas are activated for this event, KEMA will issue news releases, update the County website and its Refuge Area Status Page, and, as appropriate, send notifications through the County’s Everbridge emergency notification system.

The public is reminded that refuge areas are evacuation options of last resort. In many cases, sheltering in place may be a good option, particularly if the home or structure is sound or hardened and located outside hazardous flood and storm-surge areas. 

Refuge areas do not provide food, water, bedding, medications, personal caregivers or medical staff, and anyone going to a refuge area should bring their own disaster supply “go kit.” Household pets are welcome at all designated facilities, although owners must bring their own pet food, water, and crates or cages.

Tips to prepare for power outages from Kauiʻi Island Utility Cooperative:

• 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 KIUC at 808-246-4300 to update your contact information and receive alerts

Preparation

County officials encourage the public to check and replenish their emergency disaster kits. Emergency disaster kits should include at least a 14-day supply of non-perishable food, one gallon of water per person per day, a battery-powered radio, a flashlight, an extra supply of prescription medicines, and other items tailored to individual and family needs. A smaller, portable go-kit is also recommended should you need to evacuate. County, state, and federal officials will continue to monitor the situation and actively coordinate in preparation for this potential event.

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.

For up-to-date information about Kauaʻi ocean conditions and safety, please speak to a county lifeguard, visit safebeachday.com, or call the Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4984.

Other important numbers and resources

To stay updated, stay tuned to local media broadcast channels for the most up-to-date information. The following provides a list of important resources on emergency preparedness.

• Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency – kauai.gov/kema.
• National Weather Service – weather.gov/hfo, or automated weather line at 808-245-6001.
• Kaua‘i Department of Water – 808-245-5400 and kauaiwater.org/.
• Road and closure conditions – 808-241-1725.

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. To report non-emergency road hazards, contact KPD Dispatch (non-emergency) at 808-241-1711.

To sign up for Everbridge, the County’s emergency notification service, please visit www.kauai.gov/KEMA and click “Notification Services.” You may also text “KAUAIEMA” to 888777, or call the Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.