Officials warn of potentially severe weather this weekend; Tropical Storm Lala forms southeast of Hawai‘i
LĪHUʻE – County of Kauaʻi officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and prepare for potentially severe weather conditions that may reach the island as early as Saturday afternoon, as Tropical Storm Lala has formed southeast of the state.
“Lala is now a tropical storm, and while it is still several days away, conditions can change quickly,” said Elton Ushio, Administrator of the Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency. “We are closely monitoring this system alongside our state, federal, and nongovernmental partners as conditions evolve, and we want the public to do the same via trusted sources. As the system approaches, potential impacts could include elevated fire risk ahead of any rainfall, followed by heavy rainfall and flash flooding, strong winds, and hazardous surf and coastal conditions. Residents and visitors should remain aware of these hazards and stay away from flood-prone areas, rivers and streams prone to flash flooding, and dangerous shoreline areas as conditions warrant. Please be prepared to act if conditions require us to adjust or suspend County services, close facilities, or issue additional guidance. Taking a few simple steps now to prepare your home and ʻohana can make all the difference.”
National Weather Service forecast
As of the National Weather Service’s 5 a.m. advisory on Thursday, August 13, Tropical Storm Lala was centered about 700 miles east-southeast of Hilo, moving west at 10 mph with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph. Forecasters expect gradual strengthening over the next few days, with Lala nearing hurricane strength as it approaches the Big Island on Saturday before passing south of the smaller islands over the weekend. A Hurricane Watch is in effect for the Big Island and surrounding waters. A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for all offshore Hawaiian waters beyond 40 nautical miles. For Kauaʻi, the main concerns are heavy rain and possible flash flooding, gusty winds, and high surf along east-facing shores, with the greatest potential for impacts over the weekend. While the exact track and strength modeling are still being refined, the County is urging residents and visitors to prepare now.
Pre-storm mitigation work
Department of Public Works crews at the County’s district baseyards have begun storm preparations, including clearing ditches, cleaning drains, and checking and fueling equipment. Today and tomorrow, crews will pre-stage equipment in flood-prone areas so they can respond quickly if flooding or other storm impacts occur. County crews are also preparing signs, cones, barricades, and electronic message boards for deployment during road closures, traffic control, and public alerts as conditions change.
Outreach efforts
County officials and partners will be in the field ahead of the storm to conduct houseless outreach, which includes sharing information about the approaching weather and providing individuals with available resources.
County services and facilities
There are no closures at this time. However, County services and facilities may close on little to no notice, depending on the severity of the incoming storm and its effects.
Road closures/conditions
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.
Refuge areas
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 incident and operational needs. If refuge areas are activated for this event, KEMA will issue news 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, 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.
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
Preparation
County officials encourage the public to check and replenish their emergency disaster kits. Emergency disaster kits should include at least a 14-day supply of non-perishable food, one gallon of water per person per day, a battery-powered radio, a flashlight, an extra supply of prescription medicines, and other items tailored to individual and family needs. A smaller, portable go-kit is also recommended should you need to evacuate. County, state, and federal officials will continue to monitor the situation and actively coordinate in preparation for this potential event.
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 Kauaʻi ocean conditions and safety, please speak to a county lifeguard, visit safebeachday.com, or call the Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4984.
Other important numbers 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.
- Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency – kauai.gov/kema.
- National Weather Service – weather.gov/hfo, or automated weather line at 808-245-6001.
- Kaua‘i Department of Water – 808-245-5400 and kauaiwater.org/.
- Road and closure conditions – 808-241-1725.
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. To report non-emergency road hazards, contact KPD Dispatch (non-emergency) at 808-241-1711.
To sign up for Everbridge, the County’s emergency notification service, please visit www.kauai.gov/KEMA and click “Notification Services.” You may also text “KAUAIEMA” to 888777, or call the Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.
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