7:10 a.m., April 10, County of Kaua‘i, Severe Weather Update; Kūhiō Highway near the Hanalei Bridge open
LĪHU‘E – County of Kaua‘i officials are urging the public to continue to be vigilant due to severe weather conditions.
Kūhiō Highway near the Hanalei Bridge has been reopened.
Weather Forecast (NEW UPDATE)
According to the National Weather Service, a cold front just west of the island is moving through today, bringing periods of showers, including some heavier rainfall early this morning, along with breezy winds that have shifted from strong southerlies to lighter westerlies. While the High Wind Warning for windier areas has been canceled as winds have eased, a Flood Watch remains in effect through this afternoon due to the potential for localized heavy showers. Conditions are expected to gradually improve into Saturday with lighter winds and somewhat drier air, though some lingering showers are still possible. Another round of unsettled weather could return Sunday into early next week, with light winds and daytime sea breezes leading to clouds and spotty afternoon showers.
The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch that will remain in effect through 6 p.m. April 10.
A Flood Advisory is in effect through 9:45 a.m.
The National Weather Service has canceled the High Wind Warning.
Refuge Areas
No refuge areas are open at this time. However, refuge areas islandwide are on standby, should the need arise.
Facilities Closures (NEW UPDATE)
Due to a power outage, Salt Pond Beach Park and its restrooms have been closed until further notice.
The Hawai'i Department of Education has canceled school for ONLY the Hanalei Elementary School today, April 10. All other schools will continue to operate on their regular schedules.
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
- Kūhiō Highway near the Hanalei Bridge has been reopened.
- A portion of Ala Wai Road in Waimea is experiencing heavy ponding.
- 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.
- A portion of Lokokai Road in Hanapēpē is closed due to a downed tree and wires on the ground.
- Kōke‘e Road, from Kekaha Road to Waimea Canyon Drive, is closed due to a downed tree.
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The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation advises road users that all special-use lanes on Kaua‘i will not be operational today, April 10, 2026, as crews address the impacts of the severe weather system. A full list of special-use lanes, which includes the Kūhiō Highway Southbound Contraflow, can be found here: hidot.hawaii.gov/highways/special-use-lanes/.
Pe'e Road in Poʻipū has been reopened for through traffic.
KIUC
Due to the closure of Kuhio Highway leading to Hanalei, KIUC crews will be unable to respond to outages in Hanalei, Wainiha, and Hā'ena. Members in those areas should be prepared for extended outages when they occur. Mahalo for your understanding.
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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