LIHUE — The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a warning indicating that hazardous weather conditions are expected to occur this evening.
Federal, county, and state officials are advising all island residents and visitors to prepared and remain vigilant of the hazardous weather that is anticipated to begin this evening and persist through early Friday on Jan. 31.
The NWS has forecasted an unusually robust low-pressure system to sweep north of the state bringing heavy rain that can lead to severe weather conditions. Kauai is expected to be particularly impacted by the hazardous down-slope winds that can develop east of the terrain.
The thunderstorms and heavy showers that typically lead to flash flood warnings are expected during this period.
Elton Ushio with the Kauai Emergency Management Agency (KEMA) issued a statement regarding the NWS’s predicted forecast and stated: “Given the nature of heavy rain events on Kauai, we urge everyone to stay vigilant and avoid outdoor activities in flood-prone areas like roadways, hiking trails, rivers/streams, and low-lying areas.”
Officials continue to monitor the situation and are ready to actively coordinate in preparation for any potential weather threat. The North Shore community is reminded that Kuhio Highway near the Hanalei Bridge may need to be closed with short to no-advanced notice particularly if a Flash Flood Warning is issued.
The following actions are recommended to ensure you and those in your proximity are properly prepared in case severe weather or an emergency occurs;
• Have a strategy — Island residents are encouraged to shelter in place and have an evacuation strategy ready for when or if severe weather occurs. If severe weather threatens, the Hawaii Red Cross will provide a list of open shelters if or when they become available.
• Be Prepared — Go Bags should be prepared and ready in the event a severe emergency occurs. Bags should contain enough food and water to sustain a person for at least 14 days and should be prepared specifically according to everyone’s individual needs; however, every bag should have the essential items such as non-perishable food and water, a medical kit, face masks, sanitary wipes, extra clothes including a jacket, and shoes. Prepare for possible power outages by having plenty of candles, a flashlight, batteries, a radio, or Starlink.
• Inspect your home — Walk your surroundings, and inspect for small outdoor items that can be swept up by high winds and cause injury. Examine and clear any drainage system that can clog and lead to a potential flood threat.
• Know before you go — Visitors and outdoor enthusiasts are urged to check weather conditions before starting any hike. It is advised not to cross any rivers or streams due to unpredictable water levels. Beachgoers and surfers are encouraged to speak with a lifeguard before entering the ocean. For more information regarding ocean conditions and safety visit safebeachday.com or contact the Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4980.
• Stay informed — Follow the local news and/or listen to the radio. Download the Wireless Emergency Notification System (WENS) for the county’s emergency notification service.
Additional emergency resources can be found by calling or visiting: KEMA at kauai.gov/kema or 808-241-1800; NWS at weather.gov/hfo, or the automated weather line at 808-245-6001. For road closures and conditions call 808-241-1725.
Law enforcement officials remind the public not to call the Kauai Police Dispatch line for weather-related or road conditions as these calls distract and delay response times for those in urgent need. Only dial 911 if you find yourself in an emergency.