Hawaii Hurricane warnings have been posted and authorities are advising residents of Hawaii to prepare as a potentially hazardous storm system draws near the state. Parts of the islands are on alert for strong winds, heavy rain, flooding along the coast and rough ocean conditions. Emergency agencies are calling on residents and visitors to review safety plans, secure property and stay up to date as forecasts continue to shift.
Hurricane threat forces Hawaii to go on high alert
Hurricane watches mean dangerous conditions are possible and immediate preparations should be made.
A warning differs from a simple storm watch in that it means officials believe that severe weather conditions are likely to affect the area during the period of the forecast.
Hawaii’s island geography can create unique challenges with storms because weather conditions can be vastly different between communities just a few miles apart.
High Winds Could Create Hazardous Conditions
In places subject to coastal conditions or high elevations, powerful hurricane winds can cause widespread destruction.
Potential impacts include:
- Branches and fallen trees
- Blackouts
- Structural and roof damage
- Hazardous travelling conditions
- Flying debris
Residents often are told to secure outdoor furniture, decorations and other loose items ahead of bad weather.
Downpour sparks fears of floods
Even when the strongest winds remain offshore, tropical systems can still produce heavy rain.
Hawaii’s mountainous terrain can contribute to the dangers of flash flooding as heavy rains can rapidly run off through valleys, streams and low lying areas.
Officials often caution residents to stay off flooded roads because it can be difficult to gauge the depth of the water and conditions can change quickly.
Additional Threat to Coastal Areas
In addition to wind and rain, hurricanes can create dangerous coastal conditions.
Large waves, storm surge and strong currents threaten beaches, harbours and coastal communities.
Ocean activity is generally discouraged during violent storms and conditions can become dangerous with little warning.
Number One Priority: Emergency Preparedness
Officials are urging people to be prepared with supplies before big storms hit.
Some common preparations for a hurricane include:
- Stocking up on drinking water and non-perishable food
- Charging phones and spare batteries
- Protection of Important Documents
- Medication preparation
- Developing a family communication plan
Residents should also be aware of their evacuation routes and local emergency shelter information.
Geography Complicates Storm Forecasting in Hawaii
Hurricanes are difficult to forecast near Hawaii because the storms interact with ocean temperatures, wind patterns and mountains.
Small changes in the path of a storm can make a big difference as to which islands feel the brunt of the storm.
As more weather data becomes available, forecasters continue to update forecasts.
Sources
- National Weather Service Honolulu – Hurricane Warnings, Watches, & Severe Weather Alerts
- Central Pacific Hurricane Centre – tracking tropical cyclones and storm information
- Hawaii Emergency Management Agency – State of Hawaii emergency alerts and preparedness information
- FEMA – Hurricane Safety Information & Disaster Preparedness
- NOAA – Updates on hurricane science and tropical weather monitoring
