LIHU‘E — Due to the increase of activity in the Pacific, Kaua‘i officials are warning island residents to stay vigilant and prepared for any potential severe weather.
The Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency (KEMA) continues to monitor Hurricane Gilma and Tropical Storm Hone, along with other activity currently developing in the Pacific.
“Although it’s still too early to know the track of Tropical Depression One-C (Tropical Storm Hone), 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.”
Officials with the National Weather Service (NWS) are forecasting a possible disturbance to Kaua‘i this weekend into next week. This includes the possibly of enhanced winds, rainfall, coastal storm surge, potential flooding and flash flooding.
It is imperative that all residents remember that they are in the midst of hurricane season. Having a plan and disaster kits at hand are the first steps in the event of any weather disruption.
• Disaster kits: The kits should include at least a 14-day supply of nonperishable food, at least 1 gallon of water per person per day, a battery-powered radio or a Starlink, a flashlight, along with extra supply of prescription medicines and other specific items specific to every individual and their family needs.
• 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 allow, clear your gutters and other drainage systems.
• Have a 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, please speak to a county lifeguard, visit www.safebeachday.com or call the Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4984.
The Central Pacific Hurricane Center (CPHC) is actively monitoring weather conditions, employing a network of satellites, land- and ocean-based sensors, and aircraft reconnaissance missions operated by NOAA and its partners. A combination of complex computer modeling and human expertise allows for the hurricane center to track and intensify forecasts that extend out five days.
The CPHC will issue a hurricane or tropical storm watch when the winds reach the storm-force wind levels between 36 to 48 hours.
Officials noted these potential threats may affect historically flood prone areas, including coastal storm surges. The Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative (KIUC) said on Wednesday that it activated its Emergency Preparedness Plan. KIUC is also monitoring the activity in the Pacific and have warned residents of the possibly of disruptions to utilities with and without warning.
When these warnings are issued residents and visitors should keep up with local broadcasts, and monitor any website or social platform for official and accurate weather information from emergency management officials. Residents are also encouraged to sign up for the Wireless Emergency Notification System (WENS), the county’s emergency notification service.
For more information please visit, www.kauai.gov/KEMA and click “WENS.” People can also call the KEMA at 808-241-1800.
