4 p.m., Sept. 3, County of Kaua‘i, Hurricane Lowell Update
LĪHUʻE – The Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency (KEMA) is urging residents to begin preparations now as Hurricane Lowell continues to track across the Pacific and the forecast brings the storm closer to Kauaʻi.
While the exact track and impacts remain uncertain, Kauaʻi could experience strong winds, heavy rain, dangerous surf and coastal flooding beginning this weekend and continuing into early next week. Residents should take this time to prepare and stay informed as the forecast develops.
“Now is the time for every household on Kauaʻi to take preparedness seriously,” said Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami. “Sit down with your ʻohana and make sure everyone knows what your plan is if conditions change. We may not know exactly what Lowell will bring, but we can make sure our families and our community are ready for whatever comes our way.”
KEMA continues to coordinate closely with county, state, and federal partners, as well as with non-governmental organization and community partners, and will provide updates as conditions warrant.
No tropical storm or hurricane watches or warnings are currently in effect for Kauaʻi, but watches could be issued this weekend if the current forecast holds.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed and monitor official County channels for updates as the forecast develops.
Weather Forecast (NEW UPDATE)
According to the National Weather Service, Hurricane Lowell is currently a Category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 140 mph. As of 11 a.m. Thursday, the storm was located about 600 miles southeast of Līhuʻe and moving west at 10 mph. Lowell is expected to gradually slow over the next couple of days before turning toward the northwest and north this weekend. The storm is expected to remain a major hurricane through the weekend.
Kauaʻi remains within the forecast uncertainty cone for Monday, September 7. Lowell is currently forecast to pass west of Kauaʻi, but the track has shifted eastward toward the island. Confidence in the extended track remains low, and the storm could still shift farther east toward Kauaʻi or move farther away. A Category 3 hurricane is currently forecast at the storm’s closest approach to Kauaʻi County Monday afternoon or evening.
Strong and gusty trade winds are expected through Sunday, with gusts over 50 mph possible in exposed areas, particularly over and downwind of terrain. Passing showers will primarily affect windward and mauka areas, especially overnight and during the early morning hours.
Surf is the most immediate concern. A building south to southeast swell from Lowell is expected to bring elevated, potentially warning-level surf to south-facing shores over the next several days, becoming more southerly by Saturday. Swells from Hurricane Karina are also expected along east-facing shores beginning Saturday and continuing into early next week. The most significant surf is expected Monday, when a large south to southwest swell from Lowell will coincide with the month’s highest tides. Extreme surf and coastal flooding are possible along south- and west-facing shores.
The potential for flash flooding remains limited through Saturday but will increase Sunday and Monday. Significant flooding is possible depending on Lowell’s rainbands and exact track. Significant and potentially damaging winds are also possible Monday, with major hurricane-force winds possible if the storm’s track shifts closer to Kauaʻi.
A Tropical Storm Warning remains in effect for all Hawaiian offshore waters beyond 40 nautical miles.
A High Surf Advisory remains in effect for south- and southeast- facing shores.
Forecasts may change, and residents should continue monitoring kauai.gov, the County’s official social media channels, and other official sources for updates.
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. 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.
Facilities Closures (NEW UPDATE)
The Kōloa HI5 Redemption Center will be closed Sunday, September 6, due to anticipated inclement weather.
Additional County services and facilities may close on little to no notice, depending on the severity of the incoming storm and its effects.
The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) Division of State Parks is implementing the following closures due to incoming inclement weather:
- Polihale State Park will close to overnight camping and day use tomorrow, September 4, until further notice.
- The Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park will close to overnight camping beginning tomorrow, September 4, until further notice.
- The Kalalau Trail will remain open for day use only as far as Hanakāpīʻai. The trail beyond Hanakāpīʻai, including Nuʻalolo Kai and Miloliʻi, will be closed beginning tomorrow, September 4, until further notice.
- The Hā'ena Shuttle will continue to operate for day use of the Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park.
The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) will arrive by helicopter tomorrow morning, September 4, to notify all overnight visitors that they must leave the area immediately.
The Līhuʻe Airport remains open but those traveling are advised to contact their airlines directly for information regarding delays, cancellations, or additional changes.
Monitor weather forecasts and conditions and do not go hiking or participate in outdoor and ocean recreational activities such as hiking, camping, swimming, surfing, and more if hazards are forecasted or preset. 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.
Pre-Storm Mitigation Work (NEW UPDATE)
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.
Preparedness
County officials strongly encourage the public to check and replenish their emergency disaster kits now, rather than waiting for the weekend. 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.
###
|
