NR 07-27-26 (Officials continue to monitor Hurricane Fausto, urge hurricane season preparedness)

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DEREK S.K. KAWAKAMI, MAYOR
REIKO MATSUYAMA, MANAGING DIRECTOR

News Release

For Immediate Release: July 27, 2026

Officials continue to monitor Hurricane Fausto,
urge hurricane season preparedness

LĪHU‘E – County of Kauaʻi officials are monitoring Hurricane Fausto, the first hurricane of the 2026 Eastern Pacific hurricane season, and are reminding residents and visitors that August and September are historically the peak months of hurricane season in the Central Pacific.

Officials encourage everyone to stay informed, review or update hurricane preparedness plans, and ensure personal, family, and organizational readiness throughout the remainder of the season.

According to the National Weather Service, Hurricane Fausto is expected to pass north of the Hawaiian Islands as a tropical storm Tuesday through Wednesday. While the current forecast keeps the storm's center away from Kauaʻi, officials are closely monitoring its track, as even slight shifts could result in increased impacts for the island. Kauaʻi residents can expect breezy trade winds, periods of showers, rough surf along east-facing shores, and the potential for stronger winds and heavy rainfall as the system passes. A High Surf Warning remains in effect for east-facing shores through Wednesday, with strong breaking waves and currents. Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay informed, monitor the latest forecasts, and use this opportunity to review emergency plans and gather essential supplies before the peak of hurricane season.

The Central Pacific hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, with peak activity typically occurring between August and October. Officials encourage every household to maintain a 14-day supply of food, water, medication, and other essentials; prepare a portable disaster supply “go kit”; keep important documents in a waterproof container; understand the hazards that may affect their home or neighborhood; review potential refuge options; and make arrangements in advance for pets, kūpuna, and family members with access or functional needs.

Should conditions warrant, County services and facilities may close with little to no advance notice, depending on the severity of the storm and its effects. County, State, and federal officials will continue to monitor the situation and coordinate in preparation for this potential event.

The County may open potential refuge areas across the island if forecasts and conditions warrant. KEMA released an updated Potential Refuge Area List in May, available online at www.kauai.gov/kema, which identifies facilities that may be considered for use during emergencies. Not every facility on the list will be opened during every emergency, and additional public or private facilities may also be activated depending on the incident and operational needs. If refuge areas are activated for this event, KEMA will issue media releases, update the County website and its Refuge Area Status Page, and, as appropriate, send notifications through the County’s Everbridge emergency notification system.

The public is reminded that refuge areas are evacuation options of last resort. In many cases, sheltering in place may be a good option to consider, particularly if the home or structure is sound or hardened and located outside hazardous flood and storm-surge areas. Refuge areas do not provide food, water, bedding, medications, personal caregivers, or medical staff, and anyone going to a refuge area should bring their own disaster supply “go kit.” Household pets are welcome at all designated facilities, though owners must bring their own pet food, water, and crates or cages.

Officials remind the public to use 9-1-1 only for life-threatening or time-critical emergencies. Calls to 9-1-1 for weather updates or general road conditions can significantly delay emergency response. For road status and closures, call 808-241-1725. To report non-emergency road hazards, contact KPD Dispatch at 808-241-1711. For weather information, call the National Weather Service automated line at 808-245-6001 or visit www.weather.gov/hfo.

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.

Standard tips to prepare for power outages from Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative 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 on hand.
• Stay away from downed lines and report them to 9-1-1.
• Contact KIUC at 808-246-4300 to update your contact information and receive alerts.

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, and always check with a lifeguard at any lifeguard station before entering the ocean. Know before you go. For up-to-date information about Kauaʻi 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, tune in to local media broadcast channels for the most current information. The following resources are available for emergency preparedness information:

• Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency – www.kauai.gov/kema.
• National Weather Service – www.weather.gov/hfo, or automated weather line at 808-245-6001.
• Road and closure conditions – 808-241-1725.
• Do not call 9-1-1 unless it is an emergency.

To sign up for Everbridge, the County’s emergency notification service, please visit www.kauai.gov/kema and click on “Notification Services.” You may also call the Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.

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