REMINDER: Red Flag Warning for Kaua‘i County in effect 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; power outages possible
Officials are reminding the public that the National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for the leeward areas of Kaua‘i County that goes into effect today, Aug. 24, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Kaua‘i Fire Department urges the public to remain vigilant to prevent fires.
In addition, Kaua‘i is under a Wind Advisory through 6 a.m. on Aug. 26.
Northeast winds of 30 to 40 miles per hour with localized gusts over 50 miles per hour are expected.
Impacts from strong wind include tearing off of shingles, flying debris such as tree branches and other loose objects, and difficulty steering for motorists with high-profile vehicles. Power outages may be expected.
The Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency is in partial activation for the duration of the Red Flag Warning.
Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative and emergency officials are closely monitoring the progress of Tropical Storm Hone and its potential impact to the island over the weekend.
Due to current forecasted wind and wind gust speeds, it is possible that KIUC will place circuits west of Halfway Bridge into sensitive settings, which could lead to greater than normal outage activity. KIUC may also choose to de-energize certain circuits based on changing weather conditions. These actions would be taken to prevent wildfire ignition and could occur without prior notice.
Members are encouraged to review their home and business emergency preparedness plans, and act accordingly in preparation for extended outages.
For more information, please click on this link: https://www.kiuc.coop/kiuc-member-weather-alert-2.
The Kaua‘i Fire Department is advising the following to prevent wildfires:
- Refrain from ALL outdoor burning, including cooking;
- Avoid the use of mechanized equipment outdoors, including the use of yardwork equipment;
- Do not drive your vehicle in dry, tall grass. The underside of your vehicle is hot and can easily ignite grasses from your exhaust muffler;
- Ensure trailer chains do not drag on the ground;
- Be aware of wind direction and gusts that could spread fire rapidly;
- Have an escape route to a clear area safe from rapid-fire spread; and
- Report any possible fires – including signs of smoke or flames – by calling Kaua‘i Police Department Dispatch at 808-241-1711 or 911 if it is an emergency.
The Hawai‘i Department of Health has declared a “NO BURN” period for Kaua‘i County from 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 24, to 9 a.m., Monday, August 26.
This declaration prohibits any open burning, including all permitted agricultural burning.
If you have any questions, please call: Clean Air Branch – Kaua‘i at 808-241-3325 or Clean Air Branch – Oahu at (808) 586-4200.
A Red Flag Warning means critical fire weather conditions are either occurring or will occur shortly.
A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and dry fuels can contribute to extreme fire behavior. Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Again, all outdoor burning is not recommended.
The warning may be extended, dropped, or modified as conditions develop.
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, or call the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.
For more information about fire safety, please contact the Fire Prevention Bureau at 808-241-4985 or Kauai.gov/fire.
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