2:10 P.M., March 12, County of Kaua‘i, Severe Weather Update
LĪHU‘E – County of Kaua‘i officials are urging the public to be vigilant due to severe weather conditions.
Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami has signed an emergency proclamation for this severe weather event, in order to provide relief for disaster damages, losses, and suffering, and to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the people.
"Out of an abundance of caution due to the potential for severe weather, we have been working closely with our Complex Area Superintendent, Leila Maeda-Kobayashi, and schools on Kaua‘i will be closed tomorrow. Any questions regarding school operations should be directed to the Hawai‘i State Department of Education. County of Kaua‘i offices will also be closed tomorrow, March 13," said Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami.
Residents should be prepared for periods of intense rainfall, rising streams, and localized flooding, along with gusty winds and unstable weather conditions as the system develops later in the week.
"We encourage everyone to check on their neighbors and loved ones and to follow updates from local media and official County channels. We have always been a community that looks out for one another, and by staying informed and helping each other, we will get through this safely together," added Mayor Kawakami.
Refuge Areas
No refuge areas have been opened at this time. However, refuge areas islandwide are on standby, should the need arise.
Facilities Closures (NEW UPDATE)
The Hawai'i Department of Education has closed all public and charter schools, as well as DOE offices, tomorrow, March 13.
All County offices, facilities, and services except for essential workers will be closed tomorrow, March 13.
The Kaua'i Bus is currently operating on its regular schedule. However, service disruptions may occur on little to no notice.
The State of Hawai'i has also closed all facilities and services on Kaua'i tomorrow, March 13.
The Department of Land and Natural Resources has closed Polihale State Park and Hā‘ena State Park as well as all parking lots within Koke‘e State Park until further notice. Overnight camping at Koke‘e State Park has also been suspended until further notice.
Road Closures
There are no road closures at this time.
Officials note that Kūhiō Highway near the Hanalei Bridge may be closed with little or no advance notice, particularly if a Flash Flood Warning is issued. Utilities and other services may also be disrupted.
Weather Forecast
According to the National Weather Service, a powerful Kona storm will bring a prolonged period of hazardous weather to Kaua‘i through the weekend. Periods of moderate to heavy rain may lead to significant flash flooding, especially as saturated ground conditions increase the risk of runoff and flooding even with steady rainfall. Repeated rounds of showers and thunderstorms are expected, with some storms potentially becoming strong to severe from Friday through Saturday. In addition, strengthening southwesterly Kona winds could produce damaging gusts, particularly along north- and east-facing mountain areas, with the potential for downed trees, blocked roadways, and power outages. Unsettled wet weather with continued southwest winds may persist into early next week before conditions gradually improve as the storm system lifts north of the islands.
KIUC
Standard tips to prepare for power outages from KIUC include:
- Use surge protectors to protect your appliances & equipment.
- Turn off & unplug all unnecessary appliances or equipment.
- Keep a portable battery-powered radio & flashlights with extra batteries.
- Stay away from downed lines & report to 9-1-1.
- Contact KIUC at 808-246-4300 to update your contact information & receive alerts.
Safety Advisory
The Department of Health Clean Water Branch has issued a Brown Water Advisory for the island of Kaua‘i. The Hawai‘i State Department of Health advises beach users to stay out of waters when the water appears brown or murky, especially following storms or heavy rain.
The public is advised to check conditions before venturing out for hiking, river, or beach excursions. River and stream crossings, recreational trails, and other outdoor recreation areas may quickly become hazardous.
During severe weather, emergency rescues may not be possible. 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.
Important Contacts and Resources
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.
- To report non-emergency road hazards, contact KPD Dispatch (non-emergency) at 808-241-1711.
- 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 9-1-1 unless it is an emergency.
To sign up for the Wireless Emergency Notification System (WENS), the county’s emergency notification service, please visit kauai.gov/KEMA and click “WENS.” You may also call the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.
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