Kaua‘i officials monitoring adverse weather approaching the islands; advise public to be prepared

Kaua‘i Emergency Management officials are monitoring Topical Depression One-C, Hurricane Gilma, and other activity in the Pacific and advising the public to be vigilant and prepare for potential severe weather.

Officials with the National Weather Service are forecasting possible impacts to Kaua‘i as early as this weekend into the beginning of next week. This may include enhanced winds, rainfall, coastal storm surge, potential flooding and flash flooding, and possible tropical cyclone impacts.

“Although it’s still too early to know the track of Tropical Depression One-C, Hurricane Gilma, and other disturbances in the Pacific, in the event of a Tropical Cyclone, preparedness is crucial for you and your family,” said Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency (KEMA) Administrator Elton Ushio. “Getting your emergency preparedness kits ready sooner rather than later is important. Here on Kaua‘i, we know it only takes one storm to affect our community adversely.”

The Central Pacific Hurricane Center continuously monitors weather conditions, employing a network of satellites, land- and ocean-based sensors, and aircraft reconnaissance missions operated by NOAA and its partners. Complex computer modeling and human expertise are the basis for the hurricane center’s track and intensity forecasts that extend out five days.

Officials note that potential threats may affect areas historically prone to flooding, flash flooding, and even coastal storm surges. Severe weather may disrupt utilities and other services.

Officials recommend the following actions when preparing for a weather emergency:

• Emergency Preparedness Kits – Emergency preparedness kits should contain at least a 14-day supply of food and water (including non-perishable food and one gallon of water per person per day). Kits should also include a battery-powered radio, flashlight, extra prescription medicines, and other items specific to individual and family needs. It is also recommended that face coverings and hand sanitizer also be included in your kits. Set aside an emergency supply of any needed medication and keep a copy of your prescriptions in case you run out of medication after a disaster.

• Check Your Property – Walk your property, check for small outdoor items that could be picked up by high winds, and check for potential flood threats. If time and conditions permit, clear your gutters and other drainage systems.

• Make an Action Plan – Discuss with family members what you plan to do if severe weather threatens. Make an action plan, including details such as whether your family will shelter in place or evacuate to a shelter. There are no plans to open shelters at this time; however, the county will work with the American Red Cross to open shelters on an as-needed basis and announce a list of open shelters if or when they become available.

• Outdoor activities – Visitors and residents are urged to check conditions before venturing out for hiking, river, or beach excursions. 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 Kaua‘i ocean conditions and safety, speak to a county lifeguard, visit www.safebeachday.com, or call the Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4984.

Visit www.kiuc.coop to learn more about how to prepare for a power outage.

The Kekaha Landfill and County refuse transfer stations may close due to severe and inclement weather. For more information, visit kauai.gov/TransferStations or call 808-241-4841.

Severe weather storms can cause damage to water systems, disrupt electrical power to Department of Water pumps and equipment, block road access to water sources, and may impact water quality. Customers should prepare for emergency water service disruptions by having the recommended water storage supply readily available for essential uses. For more water emergency preparedness tips, visit www.kauaiwater.org.

Continue to 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:

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

Do not call Kaua‘i Police 911 unless it is an emergency.

To sign up for the Wireless Emergency Notification System (WENS), the county’s emergency notification service, visit www.kauai.gov/KEMA and click “WENS.” You may also call the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.