City to open eight hurricane refuge areas Saturday with free bus evacuation service

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The City and County of Honolulu will open eight hurricane refuge areas Saturday morning ahead of expected severe weather associated with Tropical Storm Lala.

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The hurricane refuge areas will open at 8 a.m. Saturday, August 15, at the following locations:

The refuge areas will remain open as conditions warrant, officials said.

Hurricane refuge areas provide a safe place for residents and visitors who need temporary protection from severe weather. If you plan to use a refuge area, bring your own food, water, medications, and other essential items whenever possible.

All locations are pet-friendly. Pets must be leashed or secured in a carrier, and owners are responsible for their pets and should bring food, water, and other necessary pet supplies.

The hurricane refuge areas will be operated in partnership with the American Red Cross, with support from City and County of Honolulu departments.

TheBus evacuation service

During an emergency, TheBus may provide evacuation service from affected areas where conditions allow. Buses providing evacuation service will be clearly marked with “Evacuation” signage, and no fare will be required.

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Individuals needing transportation should flag down the driver to request evacuation assistance. Animals are permitted onboard as long as they can be safely secured or seated and do not interfere with the safety or comfort of other passengers or the driver.

H.O.N.U. operations

As part of the City’s preparations, residents of the Homeless Outreach and Navigation for the Unsheltered (H.O.N.U.) program will be temporarily relocated to the Kapolei High School gymnasium to provide a safe indoor location during the severe weather.

The 63 individuals currently staying at H.O.N.U. will be transported to the gym Saturday morning ahead of the storm. Once residents have been relocated, tents and equipment at the H.O.N.U. site will be taken down and secured until conditions improve.

City officials encourage residents and visitors to continue monitoring weather conditions and official information throughout the weekend.

Residents can sign up for HNL Alert at hnlalert.gov or text HNLALERT to 888-777 to receive urgent notifications.

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