5:40 P.M., April 9, County of Kaua‘i, Flash Flood Weather Update; Kūhiō Highway near the Hanalei Bridge is closed
LĪHU‘E – County of Kaua‘i officials are urging the public to continue to be vigilant due to severe weather conditions.
The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Warning for Kaua‘i, due to heavy rains occurring over the island. The warning 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.
Due to flooding, Kūhiō Highway near the Hanalei Bridge remains closed until further notice.
Weather Forecast
According to the National Weather Service, an increasingly active weather pattern will continue to impact Kauaʻi through Friday as strengthening low pressure northwest of the state pulls deep tropical moisture over the island. Periods of heavy rain, strong southerly winds, and isolated strong to severe thunderstorms are expected, with the greatest potential for significant rainfall and flash flooding focused on Kauaʻi during the early phase of this event. Winds will become strong and gusty, especially along north- and east-facing slopes, where a High Wind Warning is in effect. Conditions may briefly improve late Friday night into Saturday, but another round of unsettled weather is possible from Sunday into early next week.
The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Warning for Kaua'i that will remain in effect through 7:45 p.m. April 9.
The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Advisory that will remain in effect through 7:15 p.m. today, April 9.
The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch that will remain in effect through 6 p.m. April 10.
The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Warning that will remain in effect through 6 a.m. April 10.
Refuge Areas
No refuge areas are open at this time. However, refuge areas islandwide are on standby, should the need arise.
Facilities Closures
Due to downed power lines blocking Kalihiwai Road, residential refuse pick up will be delayed in the Kīlauea through Hā‘ena areas will be delayed.
The Kapa'a Refuse Transfer Station will not be accepting green waste until further notice due to weather conditions.
KIUC crews have successfully restored power to the Hanalei Refuse Transfer Station. The Hanalei Refuse Transfer Station is open and all services are available.
The Department of Land and Natural Resources has closed the Kalalau Trail and Polihale State Park until further notice. The Hā'ena Shuttle has also been suspended until further notice.
The Department of Land and Natural Resources has closed the Wailua River to all vessels.
County services and facilities may close on little to no notice, depending on the severity of the incoming storm and its effects.
Road Closures (NEW UPDATE)
- Due to flooding, Kūhiō Highway near the Hanalei Bridge remains closed until further notice.
- A portion of Ala Wai Road in Waimea is experiencing heavy ponding.
- A portion of Kaumuali'i Highway in the vicinity of Omao Road is open to alternating traffic only due to a downed tree.
- A portion of Ala Kalanikaumaka Street in the vicinity of the roundabout in Poʻipū is experiencing heavy ponding.
- A portion of Ho'one Road in Poʻipū is closed due to heavy ponding.
- A portion of Weliweli Road in Kōloa is closed due to heavy ponding.
- A portion of Puolo Road in Hanapēpē is closed due to debris blocking the roadway from high surf.
- The portion of Koke'e Road has reopened as crews have removed the downed tree.
- Kalihiwai Road leading to the beach in Kīlauea has reopened.
- Makaha Ridge Road has been reopened.
Pe'e Road in Poʻipū has been reopened for through traffic.
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.
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 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.
The Hawai'i Department of Health Clean Water Branch has issued a Brown Water Advisory for the island of Kaua'i. The Department of Health advises beach users to stay our of waters when the water appears brown or murky, especially following storms or heavy rain.
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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