State Transportation Department preps for significant winter storm

The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation has taken action at airports and harbors as well as on highways throughout the state to prepare for the major winter storm beginning to make its way through the islands.

All airport districts worked with tenants on pre-storm preparation, including moving loose equipment on ramps. Crews also cleared airfield drains and outlets and are on standby to ensure continued operations during high winds and heavy rains.

Airports will remain open unless there is damage to runway or terminal facilities.

The only exception is Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport in Kona on the Big Island, which might restrict boarding and deplaning during weather events because of its open-air configuration.

Passengers are reminded that their best source of information about their flights is their airlines.

Do not come to the airport unless you have a confirmed flight. If you are at the airport and need to take shelter, do not leave the secured area or you might need to go through security screening to re-enter.

If security checkpoints are closed for the night, no passengers are allowed to enter.

Harbors personnel notified harbor users, agents, tenants and contractors during the past 2 days about the incoming weather and urged them to prepare by securing their facilities, including construction sites.

Crews filled vehicles and portable generators to ensure a quick response, if needed.

Personnel also are in regular contact with the U.S. Coast Guard and will coordinate port surveys and assessments following the storm to quickly restart the ocean cargo lifeline.

State highway crews on all islands completed their pre-storm checklist actions — fueling up equipment and tanks at baseyards, clearing drainage areas, removing anything that could block water at construction sites, staging equipment outside of low-lying areas and staffing local emergency operating centers.

The state Transportation Department encourages all Hawai‘i residents to ensure they are prepared for the heavy rains and high winds expected with the storm by checking their properties for loose items that could be blown or swept away and ensuring vehicles are fueled and emergency supplies are accessible.

Residents and visitors alike also are encouraged to remember the following tips for driving in wet conditions:

• Make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition and use your headlights if you are driving in rainy conditions.
• Turning on your headlights increases your visibility and helps make other drivers aware of you.
• Do not drive through fast-moving water or water of uncertain depth. Your vehicle could stall out or could be washed away. As little as 24 inches of moving water can wash away a vehicle.
• Do not drive in high winds, especially in high-profile vehicles, as you risk your vehicle being pushed by winds or rolled over.
• Be cautious on the road following high-wind event sas debris and live electrical lines can harm you and damage your vehicle.

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