HONOLULU — As Oʻahu continues to recover from two recent Kona low storms, the City and County of Honolulu is urging residents to prepare for the potential of a third severe weather system that could impact the island later this week.
According to the National Weather Service, forecasters are monitoring conditions that may develop into another Kona low, bringing the possibility of heavy rain, flash flooding, and localized severe weather. While the system is still developing, City officials are emphasizing the importance of early preparedness, especially for communities already impacted by recent storms.
Areas including Waialua, Haleʻiwa, Kahuku, and Lāʻie continue to face ongoing recovery challenges, with debris removal, infrastructure repairs, and community support efforts still underway.
“This comes at a time when many of our communities are still working to recover, and we understand how difficult that is,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “The possibility of another Kona low in such a short span is deeply concerning. Our focus right now is twofold. We are continuing to support recovery efforts on the ground while also preparing for the potential of additional impacts. We are asking residents to stay informed, take precautions now, and look out for one another.”
City departments remain in active recovery mode while simultaneously preparing for possible new impacts. Crews continue debris removal operations, stream clearing, and infrastructure repairs in hard-hit areas, while emergency management teams are closely monitoring the forecast and coordinating with state and federal partners.
- The City’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) will be fully activated starting Wednesday as we move into a heightened state of readiness.
- We are preparing shelters and will communicate shelter hours as needed. Wahiawa District Park, Kaneohe District Park, Manoa Valley District Park and Waianae District Park have been identified as shelter locations for this week’s event.
- The Community Assistance Center in Waialua and the Distribution Hub will close Wednesday through Friday so we can prioritize safety and shift resources as needed.
Depending on the severity of the storm, some City services, programs, or facilities may be adjusted or closed on short notice to ensure public safety and allow resources to be redirected where they are needed most.
Officials remind residents to call 911 only for life-threatening emergencies. For non-emergency concerns, residents should report them through HNL311 using the HNL311 app, available on the Apple App Store or Google Play, or by visiting hnl.info/hnl311. We encourage residents to use HNL311 to report issues such as potholes, drainage concerns, or a downed tree in a park or other city area that is not blocking a roadway.
Residents are encouraged to take the following steps now:
- Clear debris, mud, and vegetation from gutters and drainage areas near your home
- Secure outdoor items, including tarps, building materials, and debris piles
- Avoid driving through flooded roadways or standing water
- Stay away from streams, canals, and low-lying areas during heavy rain
- Sign up for emergency alerts through HNL Alert
- Continue to monitor weather updates from the National Weather Service and local media.
Residents in previously flooded areas should take extra precautions, as saturated ground conditions increase the risk of renewed flooding even with moderate rainfall.
Outdoor conditions may become hazardous quickly. Streams can rise rapidly, and coastal areas may experience dangerous surf. The public is advised to use caution and follow guidance from Ocean Safety personnel and emergency officials.
The City will continue to provide updates as conditions evolve and encourages residents to remain vigilant in the days ahead.
Emergency preparedness resources:
- City and County of Honolulu Department of Emergency Management: www.honolulu.gov/dem
- National Weather Service Honolulu: www.weather.gov/hfo
- Ocean Safety Division beach conditions: www.oceansafety.honolulu.gov
Residents are encouraged to stay connected through HNL Alert by visiting www.hnlalert.gov or by texting HNLALERT to 888-777 to receive urgent emergency notifications directly to their phones.
—PAU—
