County Reminds Residents to Prepare for Hurricanes Erick, Flossie

County of Kaua‘i officials are monitoring Hurricane Erick and Hurricane Flossie as they continue to move west toward the islands, and are reminding all residents and visitors to get prepared and stay informed, according to a county news release.

Both hurricanes are expected to continue their track toward the state this week, according to the National Weather Service. While forecast uncertainty remains high at this time, residents are advised to stay informed and begin precautionary measures.

“As we all continue to closely monitor these two approaching storms, now is the time to start preparing,” Mayor Derek Kawakami said in a release. “Weather forecasts are very helpful, but can change quickly. It is important to remind our residents and visitors to stay vigilant and informed on updates as they develop.”

Officials recommend that residents and visitors take the following actions when preparing for a weather emergency:

• Emergency Preparedness Kits – Emergency preparedness kits should contain at least a 14-day supply of non-perishable food, one gallon of water per person per day, a battery powered radio, flashlight, an extra supply of prescription medicines, and other items specific to individual and family needs.
• Check Your Property– Walk your property, checking for small outdoor items that could be picked up by high winds, and check for potential flood threats. If time and conditions permit, clear your gutters and other drainage systems.
• Make an Action Plan– Discuss with family members what you plan to do if a hurricane or tropical storm threatens. Make an action plan, which should include details such as whether your family will shelter in place or evacuate to a shelter. There are no plans to open shelters at this time.
• Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative– KIUC members should prepare for potential storm impacts and possible power outages. For more information on how to prepare for possible power outages, visit http://website.kiuc.coop/.
• Kaua‘i Department of Water – DOW officials advise that during a weather emergency, strong winds and/or flooding can disrupt electrical power to DOW pumps and equipment, road-access to water sources, and may impact water quality. For more information on preparedness tips for a water emergency, please visit www.kauaiwater.org.
• Stay Tuned– Continue to stay tuned to local media broadcast channels for the most up-to-date information. The following provides a list of important resources on emergency preparedness.

—  Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency – www.kauai.gov/kema

—  NOAA Central Pacific Hurricane Center – http://www.prh.noaa.gov/hnl/cphc/

—  National Weather Service – www.weather.gov/hawaii, or automated weather line at 245-6001.

—   Blackboard Connect (The county’s free emergency notification service) – Sign up at www.kauai.gov/kema, or call the KEMA at 241-1800.