Kauai residents advised to store water ahead of Hurricane Lowell

News admin September 7, 2026 0 Comments

Kauai residents advised to store water ahead of Hurricane Lowell

LĪHUʻE (HawaiiNewsNow) – The Kauaʻi Department of Water (DOW) is reminding customers to prepare for potential water service impacts due to Hurricane Lowell.

The Category 3 system is expected to bring tropical storm force winds, flooding, and fallen trees to Kauaʻi County, which can damage water infrastructure or disrupt power to water sources, triggering service interruptions, officials said.

While repair crews are prepared to respond, restoration efforts can only begin when conditions are safe and accessible, officials said. To prepare, the department recommends customers store a minimum of one gallon of water per person per day in emergency kits to meet their needs until service is restored.

Proper water storage techniques

For proper storage, customers should use clean, FDA-approved food-grade containers designed for water, officials said. The department advises against using containers that previously held hazardous materials, those with strong food odors, or easily breakable materials like glass. When storing, fill containers with tap water, leave minimal air space under the cap, and store in a cool, dark place.

Understanding emergency water advisories

During severe weather, the department may issue various notices depending on system conditions.

A water conservation request is typically issued during power outages to prevent storage tanks from draining, officials said. Under this notice, customers should limit water use to essential needs like drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene, and turn off automatic fixtures like irrigation and ice machines.

If water quality is compromised, a Do Not Drink (DND) advisory may be issued. During a DND advisory, tap water must not be consumed for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, or preparing food until officials announce it is safe.

Alternatively, a Boil Water Notice may require boiling all tap water rapidly for about three minutes before use, officials said. If boiling is not possible, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend disinfecting clear water by adding eight drops of regular, unscented liquid chlorine bleach per gallon—or 16 drops for cloudy water—and letting it stand for 30 minutes.

Severe weather guidelines

During a storm, the department advises customers to monitor local news, immediately conserve water, and collect rainwater for non-potable uses only, officials said. Automated water-drawing devices should also be disconnected.

After a storm passes, crews will assess water infrastructure, officials said. If lines are damaged or conservation notices are active, customers must continue conserving water until the department officially lifts the restrictions.