Public urged to remain vigilant as hazardous weather conditions continue

Kaua‘i County officials urge the public to remain vigilant through the ongoing hazardous weather conditions associated with an unusually strong low pressure system passing just north of the island, pulling up a ton of tropical moisture from the south aided by very strong southerly winds.

A high wind warning remains in effect through noon Friday for Kaua‘i County. Winds are expected to be at least 40 mph, with gusts of more than 60 mph.

And don’t forget: Stay away from downed power lines.

According to the National Weather Service in Honolulu, strong winds could cause property damage.

Driving conditions will also prove hazardous because of powerful crosswinds, which pose a serious risk for drivers, especially those in lightweight and high-profile vehicles. Motorists are urged to drive with extreme cauton.

Loose outdoor items should be brought inside or secured properly.

A flood watch also remains in effect through Friday afternoon.

Given the nature of heavy rain events on Kaua‘i, county emergency officials strongly advise the public to avoid outdoor activities in flood-prone areas such as roadways, hiking trails, rivers/streams and low-lying areas.

Kaua‘i County facility closures

Wailua Golf Course is closed for the remainder of the day. Staff will reassess the course conditions and weather Friday morning.

The Kōloa HI5 redemption center is closed for the remainder of the day.

Kaua‘i County response

Department of Public Works crews continue to respond to various debris on roadways and county facilities.

Department of Water conservation notice

The Department of Water issued an immediate water conservation request for Hanalei, Wainiha and Hā‘ena until further notice because of a power outage. Customers are advised to limit water use to essential needs only such as drinking, cooking and sanitation purposes — to avoid a full water service outage.

Other county responses

County, state, federal officials and other partners continue to monitor the situation and are actively coordinating during this weather event.

The public is advised NOT to call Kaua‘i Police Department dispatch for weather-related information or road conditions, as these calls significantly interfere with regular work. For road and weather conditions, call 808-241-1725.

For weather questions, call the National Weather Service automated weather line at 808-245-6001 or visit the agency’s website.

Officials note that Kūhiō Highway near the Hanalei Bridge might need to be closed with short to no notice, mainly if a flash flood warning is issued, and that utilities and other services might be disrupted.

Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative

Weather conditions are causing outages around the island. Cooperative personnel will attempt to restore power as they are safely able to do so in these conditions. Members should be prepared for extended outages and can refer to the cooperative’s Outage Map for additional information.

Tips for preparing for outages can be found at the Storm Sense page on the Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative website.

Prepare for the storm

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

• Emergency preparedness kits: They should contain at least a 14-day supply of food and water (including non-perishable food and 1 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.
• Set aside medications: 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. 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 as-needed and announce a list of open shelters if or when they become available.)
• Outdoor activities: The public is 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 the Safe Beach Day website or call the Kaua‘i Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4984.

Other information

• Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative: Cick here to learn more about how to prepare for a power outage.
• Kekaha landfill and refuse transfer stations: The Kekaha Landfill and county refuse transfer stations could close because of severe and inclement weather. For more information, click here or call 808-241-4841.
• Kaua‘i County Department of Water: 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 could 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, click here.

Stay informed

Stay abreast of all the latest weather information by tuning in to local media broadcast channels. The following provides a list of other important resources for emergency preparedness:

• Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency.
• National Weather Service or call automated weather line at 808-245-6001.
• Road and closure conditions: 808-241-1725.
• To sign up for the Wireless Emergency Notification System, the county’s emergency notification service, visit the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency website and click “WENS.” You can also call the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.