12:35 p.m., April 10, County of Kaua‘i, Severe Weather Update
LĪHU‘E – County of Kaua‘i officials are urging the public to continue to be vigilant due to severe weather conditions.
Weather Forecast
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, 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.
The National Weather Service has cancelled the Flood Advisory previously issued.
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
The Department of Parks and Recreation has utilized a generator to supply Salt Pond Beach Park with power and have reopened the park. KIUC crews continue repairs to reestablish stable power.
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.
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)
- A portion of Ho'one Road and Kuai Road in Poʻipū is closed due to heavy ponding.
- A portion of Ala Wai Road in Waimea is open to alternating traffic due to heavy ponding.
- A portion of Weliweli Road in Kōloa is open to alternating traffic due to heavy ponding.
- Kōke‘e Road, from Kekaha Road to Waimea Canyon Drive, has reopened but continues to experience heavy ponding.
- A portion of Ala Kalanikaumaka Street in the vicinity of the roundabout in Poʻipū is experiencing heavy ponding.
- Puolo Road between Hanapepe Road and Kaumuali'i Highway is experiencing heavy ponding.
- Kūhiō Highway near the Hanalei Bridge has been reopened.
- Lokokai Road in Hanapēpē has been reopened.
Pe'e Road in Poʻipū has been reopened for through traffic.
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/.
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
Ocean Safety Bureau officials are advising no swimming or other ocean activities due to brown and murky waters islandwide. County lifeguards advise no recreational water activities.
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 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.
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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