Hilo families stock up on essentials as Hurricane Nolo strengthens

HILO (HawaiiNewsNow) – Families finished last-minute errands at grocery stores and gas stations in Hilo on Thursday ahead of Hurricane Nolo’s arrival.

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A tropical storm warning has been issued for Hawaii County as Nolo continues to strengthen just south of Hawaii Island. A hurricane watch also remains in effect.

Light rain and gray clouds hung over Downtown Hilo and forecasters said rain and winds are expected to pick up once the storm arrives.

After nearly a month of back-to-back storms making landfall, many residents said they are ready and have learned how to prepare for future stormy weather.

A calm but steady stream of customers made their way in and out of the KTA Puainako store, stocking up on water, produce, toilet paper and other essential items.

“We have all the essentials; we’re all ready. We normally pack, get ready for hurricane season, so if we use it up, use a little bit, we restock,” said one woman outside of KTA.

Another shopper said he had cash on hand. On a scale of one to 10, he said he’s 10 out of 10.

“I went and got 5 gallons of water, and I also got some food storage,” the man said.

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With heavy rain and strong winds expected, local businesses also took proactive measures, with some boarding up windows.

Employees of an autobody shop on Kawili Street removed a tarp from their workshop.

Meanwhile, The Food Basket, Hawaii Island’s Food Bank, held a food distribution event ahead of Nolo, with hundreds showing up.

Organizers said this is the largest turnout they’ve seen in recent weeks and credit that to what residents have learned from prior storms.

Many took advantage of the free produce, nonperishable items and other goods that were handed out.

“When you have that happen, one after another, then things get hard for folks and this is the end of the month too. So for a lot of people, this is going to carry them into the next week,” said Kristen Frost Alberecht with The Food Basket.

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