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LĪHU‘E – County of Kaua‘i officials are urging the public to be vigilant due to potential severe weather conditions continuing into early next week.
The National Weather Service forecasts that mostly light winds will hold in place over the next few days, with showers favoring coastal areas at night and the island’s interiors during the afternoon and evening hours. Locally heavy rain and a slight chance of thunderstorms is forecast through Friday as an upper low moves over the state. Lingering moisture will likely keep the pattern rather showery, even in leeward areas at times through the weekend. A new storm system could bring another chance for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms to the islands Tuesday and Wednesday.
County, state, and federal officials will continue to monitor the situation and actively coordinate in preparation for this potential event.
Officials advise the public not to call Kaua‘i Police Dispatch for weather-related or road conditions, as these calls significantly interfere with emergency work. For road and closure conditions, call 808-241-1725. For weather questions, contact the National Weather Service automated weather line at 808-245-6001 or visit www.weather.gov/hfo.
Officials note that Kūhiō Highway, near the Hanalei Bridge, may need to be closed with short to no-advanced notice, mainly if a Flash Flood Warning is issued, and that utilities and other services may be disrupted.
Standard tips to prepare for power outages from KIUC include:
- Use surge protectors to protect your appliances and equipment
- Turn off and unplug all unnecessary appliances or equipment
- Keep a portable battery-powered radio and flashlights with extra batteries
- Stay away from downed lines and report to 911
The public is advised to check conditions before venturing out for hiking, river, or beach excursions. Do not cross swollen rivers or streams; 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 safety, please speak to a county lifeguard, visit www.safebeachday.com, or call the Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4984.
To stay updated, stay tuned to local media broadcast channels for the most up-to-date information. The following provides 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.
- Road and closure conditions – 808-241-1725.
- Do not call Kaua‘i Police 911 unless it is an emergency.
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.
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