State, county crews prepare as growing storm approaches Hawaii

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – State and county agencies are ramping up preparations as a tropical system approaches the islands, with crews clearing waterways, securing equipment and urging residents to get ready.

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Hawaii County crews have been clearing flood channels in the South Kona areas after recent Kona lows showed how quickly water can move downstream.

Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda said crews are following basic storm preparations, but the approaching system adds urgency.

“If there’s anything outside, loose items, chairs, canopies, you want to tie them down,” Alameda said. “Also, there could be high surf. Stay informed because we may have to evacuate.”

If the forecast holds, Hawaii County could see some of the first impacts.

Hilo resident Kelly Kahawai said she has already filled her gas tank and plans to buy water, flashlights and candles.

“It doesn’t appear that people are too anxious yet, but we’ll see later when I’m off work and go to the store,” Kahawai said.

At HPM Building Supply in Hilo, Darryl Oliveira, senior adviser for government and community risk, said storm-related demand typically increases for water, plywood, tarps, flashlights, generators and propane.

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“We see typical run on things like water,” Oliveira said. “We definitely see uptick in sales typically with the weather events.”

On Oahu, city crews are cleaning Manoa and Kalihi streams, placing erosion-control mats and urging residents to clear drains and secure loose items.

Division of Urban Forestry crews trimmed trees along King Street, while HART teams secured equipment along Nimitz Highway.

Oliveira said residents should prepare now, noting hurricane season is expected to be busier than normal.

“Prep now so that you’ll have things in place for the next event should something come forward,” Oliveira said.

Residents across the state are being urged to stay informed, secure loose items and sign up for county emergency alerts.

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