LIHU‘E — County of Kaua‘i officials are warning island residents of another severe weather disturbance headed to the island on Mother’s Day weekend.
Forecasters with the National Weather Service (NWS) said the state of Hawai‘i could experience severe thunderstorms with a high possibility of flooding. The powerful upper-level disturbance is anticipated to arrive on Friday.
“Given the impacts from our flood event in April, we are advising the community to prepare for potential severe weather later this week and into the weekend, as forecast by the National Weather Service,” said Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency Administrator Elton Ushio.
County, state, and federal officials are monitoring the situation and are actively coordinating in preparation for this potential event.
They remind residents that roads and most importantly Kuhio Highway, near the Hanalei Bridge, may need to be closed with short to no advanced notice mainly if a flash flood warning is issued. Other services and utilities can and could also be disrupted.
“During April’s flood event, multiple people had to be rescued in flood-prone areas like roadways, rivers (and) streams, and low-lying areas,” added Ushio.
Additionally, due to the high volume of calls during April’s flood event, the Kauai Police Department (KPD) is advising residents that if they encounter any weather-related issues or road blockage to not call KPD dispatch, as these calls interfere with 911 emergency calls.
Residents are asked to call 808-241-1725. For weather questions, call the NWS automated weather line at 808-245-6001.
Officials recommend the following actions when preparing for a weather emergency:
• Have an emergency kit ready with at least a 14-day supply of food and water. The kit should include nonperishable food and one gallon of water per person along with a battery-powered radio, flashlight, extra prescription medication, and other items specific to individual needs. It is also recommended that face coverings and hand sanitizer also be included in your 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.
• Check your property, walk your property, take pictures and check for outdoor items that could be picked up by high winds. If time permits clear your gutters.
• Check outdoor activities, all active visitors and residents are highly urged to check conditions before venturing out on any hiking, river, or beach excursions. Do not cross any high rivers or streams; always check with a lifeguard station before entering the ocean.
•Lastly, make a plan and discuss with family members what the plan of action is 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 will announce a list of open shelters if or when they become available.
To sign up for the Wireless Emergency Notification System (WENS), the county’s emergency notification service, please visit www.kauai.gov/KEMA and click “WENS.” You may also call the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.
