Officials continue to monitor new system tracking south of the islands
LĪHUʻE – The Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency (KEMA) is monitoring a newly formed system in the eastern Pacific that is forecast to track south of the Hawaiian Islands. According to the National Weather Service, Kauaʻi is not in the system’s primary impact area, and KEMA continues to coordinate closely with state, county, and federal partners and will provide updates as conditions warrant.
Weather Forecast
According to the National Weather Service, as of 5 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, Tropical Depression Two-C was just under 1,000 miles east-southeast of Hilo and moving west-northwest at 16 mph with maximum sustained winds of 35 mph. The system is forecast to gradually strengthen and may become a tropical storm as early as this evening, then weaken as it tracks south of the island chain Sunday and Monday. It currently appears smaller, weaker, and farther south than the recent Hurricane Lala. There are no watches or warnings at this time.
The main hazard is the potential for flash flooding from heavy rainfall, though rainfall amounts remain uncertain at this time. For Kauaʻi specifically, the National Weather Service outlook indicates a limited risk of flash flooding and gusty winds on Sunday, increasing to an elevated risk on Monday, before conditions are expected to improve as the system moves west. Surf and fire-weather risks for Kauaʻi remain low.
Forecasts can change, and KEMA encourages residents to stay informed through Kauai.gov, the County’s official social media channels, and other official sources.
Refuge Areas
No refuge areas are open at this time. Should conditions change and refuge areas be 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. 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.
Preparedness
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.
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
- Stay away from downed lines and 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, tune in to local media broadcast channels for the most current information. The following resources are available for emergency preparedness:
- Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency – kauai.gov/KEMA
- National Weather Service – weather.gov/hfo, or automated weather line at 808-245-6001
- Kauaʻi 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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