8:50 a.m., Aug. 15, County of Kaua‘i, Tropical Storm Update
County of Kaua‘i officials are urging the public to be vigilant due to severe weather conditions as Kauaʻi is expected to experience increasing impacts from Tropical Storm Lala.
“We are closely monitoring Tropical Storm Lala and preparing for the possibility of impacts across Kaua‘i this weekend. Our County teams and emergency response partners are taking steps now to be ready, but we also need our community to do its part by securing property, checking emergency supplies, staying informed, and avoiding unnecessary travel and outdoor activities as conditions deteriorate. Please take this warning seriously and prepare now, so we can keep our families, visitors, and first responders safe,” said Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami.
Weather Forecast (NEW UPDATE)
According to the National Weather Service, Tropical Storm Lala is expected to bring increasing impacts to Kauaʻi beginning this evening and continuing through Sunday, with strong and gusty winds, periods of heavy rainfall, and large, rough surf. A Tropical Storm Warning remains in effect for Kauaʻi and surrounding waters, while a Flood Watch is in effect from this evening through early Monday morning due to the potential for heavy rain, flash flooding, and rapidly rising streams, particularly in windward and mountainous areas. A High Surf Advisory is also in effect for east-facing shores of Kauaʻi, where surf is expected to build significantly as Lala moves westward. Residents should remain alert for changing conditions and continue to monitor the latest forecasts and advisories, as impacts can occur well away from the storm’s center.
The National Weather Service has issued a Tropical Storm Warning that will remain in effect until further notice.
The National Weather Service has issued a High Surf Advisory for east-facing shores that will remain in effect through 6 a.m. Sunday, August 15.
The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch that will remain in effect through 6 a.m. Monday, August 17.
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
No refuge areas are open at this time. However, refuge areas islandwide are on standby, should the need arise.
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.
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.
Pre-Storm Mitigation Work
Department of Public Works crews at the County’s district baseyards have conducted storm preparations, including clearing ditches, cleaning drains, and checking and fueling equipment. Crews have pre-staged equipment in flood-prone areas so they can respond quickly if flooding or other storm impacts occur. County crews are have prepared 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 were in the field ahead of the storm to conduct houseless outreach, which included sharing information about the approaching weather and providing individuals with available resources.
Facilities Closures
The Department of Land and Natural Resources has closed the Kalalau Trail, the Nāpali Coast State Park, and Polihale State Park. The Hā'ena Shuttle has also been suspended.
County services and facilities may close on little to no notice, depending on the severity of the incoming storm and its effects.
Do not go hiking or participate in outdoor and ocean recreational activities such as hiking, camping, swimming, surfing, and more. 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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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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