A low-pressure system is set to develop northwest of the state on today, bringing with it a cold front expected to sweep across the islands on Thursday and Friday. This storm system poses a significant threat of heavy rainfall, flash flooding, damaging winds, and severe storms, particularly affecting the smaller islands.
High Wind Watches and Warnings are already in effect, with the Big Island Summits anticipated to experience the brunt of the winds—southwest gusts may reach upwards of 40 to 50 mph, with peak wind gusts possibly hitting 90 mph. Residents should brace for heavy rainfall across all islands, with the most substantial totals predicted on the drier south and southwest-facing slopes.
Flood Watches remain active throughout the state until Friday afternoon, as flood-prone roads and low-lying areas are at risk of closures due to elevated runoff and overflowing streams. Flash flooding is a potential hazard, prompting officials to urge caution while driving and to avoid flooded roads. Forecasts indicate rainfall accumulations between 1 to 3 inches, with localized higher totals expected.
Additionally, the Big Island Summits are under a Winter Storm Watch, where heavy snow and ice accumulation is likely, with snowfall totals potentially reaching 4 to 8 inches and a light glaze of ice forming on wet surfaces.
In light of this impending weather event, Hawai’i officials are urging residents and business owners to prioritize emergency preparedness. Residents are encouraged to develop comprehensive emergency plans, outlining evacuation routes and designating safe areas for family members or employees. Conducting regular practice drills can enhance familiarity with these plans, ensuring everyone knows the procedure in case of an emergency.
Property owners should take proactive measures by reinforcing windows and doors, checking roofing vulnerabilities, and anchoring outdoor items that may become projectiles during storms. Creating a well-stocked emergency kit is crucial, with recommendations to include water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, cash, and any special items necessary for family members or employees.
Business owners are advised to implement continuity plans, ensuring important data is backed up to maintain operations during and after a disaster.
Utility preparedness is equally vital. Investing in backup power sources, like generators or solar systems, can help sustain operations, while regular maintenance of gas, water, and electrical systems is essential for safety.
Understanding insurance coverage is a critical aspect of preparedness. Residents are encouraged to review their policies to guarantee comprehensive coverage for disaster-related risks, such as floods and hurricanes. Documenting property and belongings with photographic evidence can prove invaluable when filing insurance claims.
As opportunistic scammers often target disaster situations, state officials caution residents to remain vigilant against fraud. Potential scams may involve fake contractors and charity fraud, so verifying credentials and utilizing trusted resources to assess charity legitimacy is vital.
For those affected by disasters, recovery resources are available through FEMA for homeowners and low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration for business owners.
As Hawai’i braces for this weather event, the overarching message is clear: preparedness is key. Residents and business owners are encouraged to take proactive measures now to protect themselves, their families, and their communities from the impending storm.
Visit the links below to report a power outage or potential safety issues:
Hawaiian Electric
KIUC
