HONOLULU — The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency urges Hawaii residents and visitors to exercise caution over the weekend as an unstable weather pattern across the state will bring hazardous conditions, according to a news release.
As of 7:46 a.m. Saturday, the National Weather Service has Maui and Molokai under a Flash Flood Warning, and Oahu, Lanai and Hawaii Island under a Flood Watch. The NWS also issued a Winter Storm Warning for the summits of Maunakea and Maunaloa as of 8:13 a.m. Sat. until 6 p.m. Sun.
According to HI-EMA, Oahu could experience winds gusting up to 45 mph by Monday. Kauai may also see high winds and locally heavy rainfall.
On Friday, Maui County experienced heavy rains causing road closures, flooded low-lying areas and was reportedly a factor in a serious injury. There was also a report of a two-inch water line break in Kula affecting four homes, and the closure of Lahaina Bypass from Hokiokio to Keawe due to flooding.
The Maui Emergency Management Agency activated its Emergency Operation Center and has asked residents to report structural property damage online.
“This weather pattern presents several different hazards at different places within the state, and we’re urging our residents and visitors to be careful and prepared,” said HI-EMA Administrator Luke Meyers in the release. “Sign up for your local county alerts to be sure you receive the most up-to-date and reliable information.”
Sign up for alerts for individual counties by following the links on this page.
In the case of extreme weather, HI-EMA provides a few tips:
- Avoid unnecessary travel
- Don’t cross flowing water in your vehicle or on foot
- Don’t go near downed power lines
- Secure items around the home in case of high winds
- Be aware of waterlogged soil on steep terrain that increases the risk of landslides
- Make a plan in case of flooding or if damage to property makes it unsafe to stay at home, work or other location
- Make sure your emergency supplies are in order: spare batteries, flashlight, radio, USB charger, drinking water, extra food for your family and pets, etc.
- Pack a “go kit” in case you need to relocate; learn how to build one here
Sarah Yamanaka covers events, environmental and community news for Spectrum News Hawaii. She can be reached at sarah.yamanaka@charter.com.