2:25 AM UPDATE: Shelters to open at Kōloa and Kapa‘a neighborhood centers; Flash Flood Warning remains in effect for Kaua‘i
Due to residential flooding in the Kōloa and Wailua areas, the Department of Parks and Recreation will be opening shelters at the Kapa‘a and Kōloa neighborhood centers. Officials with the American Red Cross are working on getting volunteers at both locations. Updates will be provided when the shelters open. Officials advise residents to shelter in place unless they need to flee due to flooding. A Flash Flood Warning remains in effect for Kaua‘i through 3 a.m. due to heavy rain producing life-threatening flash flooding.
Rescues
Officials have reported multiple rescues from cars and houses due to flooding. There are no reported injuries at this time. In addition, flooding and heavy ponding have been reported in various locations on the island. The National Weather Services advises against travel unless you flee an area subject to flooding.
Road closures
Kaua‘i Police Dispatch has reported the following road closures:
- Kūhiō Highway near the Hanalei Bridge in both directions;
- Southbound lane of Kūhiō Highway near the Wailua Bridge;
- Kuamo‘o Road due to flooding;
- ‘Ohana Street due to flooding;
- Koki Road due to flooding;
- Olohena Road near the solar farm due to flooding;
- Halehaka Road due to a downed tree;
- Wailaau Road due to flooding;
- Hulemalu Road near Alekoko Fishpond due to fallen trees and boulders;
- A portion of Pu‘uwai Road due to flooding; and
- Kōloa Road near Piko Road due to a small landslide.
Various crews from the Department of Public Works Roads Maintenance Division and the Hawai‘i Department of Transportation continue to respond to issues with the County of Kaua‘i roads and the State of Hawai‘i highways.
A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect for Kaua‘i due to heavy rains occurring over the island. The warning and watch may be extended, dropped, or modified as conditions develop.
A Flash Flood Warning means flash flooding is imminent or occurring in streams, roads and low-lying areas. Do not cross fast-flowing or rising water in your vehicle or on foot. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are favorable for Severe Thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
Please stay tuned to local media for updates on road closures.
Ponding, low visibility, and other hazardous driving conditions are expected. If you must drive, please do so with extreme caution.
For updates on road conditions and closures, please call 808-241-1725. If you are in an emergency, call Kaua‘i police 911.
For weather updates call the National Weather Service automated weather line at 808-245-6001, or visit the NWS website, www.weather.gov/hfo.
To sign up for the county's emergency notification service, Wireless Emergency Notification System (WENS), please go to the county’s website, www.kauai.gov/kema, and click on "WENS.” You may also call the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.
###
|
