Public is encouraged to prepare for potential severe weather

The public should remain vigilant about potential severe weather conditions that may reach the island as early as this weekend.

The National Weather Service is monitoring a broad area of low pressure located about 1,100 miles east-southeast of the Hawaiian Islands. Forecasters say the system is likely to strengthen into a tropical depression by midweek as it tracks west-northwestward toward the Central Pacific.

While it is too early to determine specific impacts on Kauaʻi, the county is urging residents and visitors to prepare now for the possibility of heavy rain, strong winds, and hazardous conditions.

County services and facilities may close on little to no notice, depending on the severity of the incoming storm and its effects.

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

“We are closely monitoring this system alongside our state and federal partners, and we want the public to do the same,” said Solomon Kanoho, executive officer with the Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency. “Conditions can change quickly. We encourage residents and visitors to stay tuned to trusted sources, avoid unnecessary risks near rivers, streams, and the ocean, and be ready to act if we need to close facilities or issue further guidance. Taking a few simple steps now to prepare your home and ʻohana can make all the difference.”

Officials remind the public to use 911 only for life-threatening or time-critical emergencies. Calls to 911 for weather updates or general road conditions can significantly delay emergency response.

For road status and closures, call 808-241-1725. To report non-emergency road hazards, contact Kauaʻi Police Department Dispatch (non-emergency) at 808-241-1711. For weather information, call the NWS automated line at 808-245-6001 or visit the National Weather Service website. 

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.

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 them to 911.
• Contact KIUC at 808-246-4300 to update your contact information and receive alerts.

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, call the Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4984, or visit the website.

Visit the Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency website to sign up for Everbridge, the county’s emergency notification service.

To stay updated, tune in to local media broadcast channels for the most up-to-date information. Do not call Kauaʻi police 911 unless it is an emergency. The following provides a list of important resources on emergency preparedness:

• National Weather Service website and phone number: https://weather.gov/hfo, 808-245-6001
• Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency website: https://kauai.gov/kema, 808-241-1800
• Road closures and conditions phone number: 808-241-1725