LIHU‘E — A tropical storm, which is moving through the Pacific Ocean and heading toward the Hawaiian Islands, prompted an advisory on Sunday from the County of Kaua‘i urging residents to prepare for potential impacts.
Tropical Storm Calvin was forecast to enter the central Pacific basin on Sunday evening, and then weaken as it approaches the state on late Tuesday and into Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service.
The county could feel the impacts of the storm by Wednesday afternoon, although uncertainty remains elevated.
“While it’s still too early to know what impacts Calvin will have here on Kaua‘i, now is the time to start preparing,” said Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami in a statement on Sunday. “Weather forecasts are very helpful, but can change quickly. It’s important to remain vigilant and informed on updates as they develop.”
As a result, the county’s Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency is recommending residents and visitors exercise the following precautions:
• Emergency preparedness kits should contain at least a 14-day supply of food and water (to include nonperishable food and 1 gallon of water per person per day). Kits should also include a battery powered radio, flashlight, an extra supply of prescription medicines and other items specific to individual and family needs. It is also recommended that face coverings and hand sanitizer also be included in kits. Set aside an emergency supply of any needed medication and keep a copy of prescriptions in case you run out of medication after a disaster;
• Walk your property, checking for small outdoor items that could be picked up by high winds, and check for potential flood threats. If time and conditions permit, clear gutters and other drainage systems;
• Discuss with family members what you plan to do if a hurricane or tropical storm threatens. Make an action plan, which should include 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 will announce a list of open shelters if or when they become available;
• Visitors and residents are urged to check conditions before venturing out for any hiking, river or beach excursions. Do not cross swollen rivers or streams, and 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 ocean safety, speak to a county lifeguard, visit www.hawaiibeachsafety.com or call the Kaua‘i Fire Department Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4984;
• Visit http://website.kiuc.coop/ to learn more about how to prepare for a power outage.
Additionally, the Kekaha landfill and county refuse transfer stations may close due to severe and inclement weather. For more information, visit kauai.gov/solidwaste or call 808-241-4841.
Severe weather storms can cause damage to water systems, disrupt electrical power to county Department of Water pumps and equipment, block road access to water sources and may 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, visit www.kauaiwater.org.
Residents and visitors are also advised to continue to stay tuned to local media broadcast channels for the up-to-date information. Following is a list of important resources on emergency preparedness:
• Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency – kauai.gov/kema;
• National Weather Service – weather.gov/hfo, or automated weather line at 808-245-6001;
• To sign up for the Wireless Emergency Notification System, the county’s emergency notification service, go to www.kauai.gov and click on “Emergency Notifications.” You may also call the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.
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Wyatt Haupt Jr., editor, can be reached at 808-245-0457 or whaupt@thegardenisland.com.
