NEWS RELEASE: As “Kona Low” Storm Moves West, Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency Urges Residents to Use Caution and Document Damages
As “Kona Low” Storm Moves West, Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency Urges Residents to Use Caution and Document Damages
HONOLULU – The “Kona low” weather system which has swamped the state of Hawai‘i with 20 inches or more of rain in places since Friday will move farther westward but could continue to affect Oʻahu and Kauaʻi through Tuesday night.
Although the risk of precipitation is reduced for Hawaiʻi island, Maui, Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi, residents and visitors should remain vigilant and prepared, as the strong weather system could still spawn rain over the state through Wednesday.
The system has caused widespread flooding, power outages, landslides, and damage to homes, businesses, and personal property. The Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA) urges those affected to return home only after authorities say it is safe to do so, and to quickly take steps to document the damage once you return.
For insurance purposes, take video or photographs of flood damage before cleaning up. Photos and other documentation also will be needed in the event that funding becomes available to assist with recovery from the storm.
After documenting any damages, you may begin cleanup immediately; you need not wait for a flood insurance adjuster or inspector to come to your home.
- Wear heavy boots, gloves, and goggles during cleanup.
- Be aware of hidden structural damage. Floodwater may have weakened roads and building foundations.
- Avoid wading in floodwater which may be hiding debris, contaminated with sewage, or electrically charged.
- Be aware of brown water advisories. Brown water advisories are issued by the Department of Health to remind the public to avoid dirty water as they may be contaminated.
- Prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Use generators, pressure washers, or other gasoline-powered machinery outdoors at least 20 feet from doors, windows, or vents.
Each County has online Self Reporting Tools for Residential and Business Damage Assessment. The purpose of these forms is only to collect information that will help local officials understand the damage that occurred and impacts on the community.
- Hawai’i County
- Maui County
- Honolulu City + County – Home
- Honolulu City + County – Business
- Kaua`i County
As this severe weather illustrates, disasters can strike at any time of year, and any time of day. Please take the time to know your hazards, develop a plan, create a ‘Go Kit’ for your ohana, and sign up for free County alerts.
You may also stay informed with up-to-date information on all hazards across the state with our Know Your Hazards mapping system.
For more information scan the QR code or visit ready.hawaii.gov
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Contact:
Adam Weintraub
Communications Director
Hawai`i Emergency Management Agency
3949 Diamond Head Rd. Honolulu, HI