This is the latest update from KHON as of 4:38 PM Monday:
HONOLULU (KHON2) — Fausto continues to track farther north of the Hawaiian Islands, reducing the threat of widespread wind and rain, but emergency officials said residents should not let their guard down. A Tropical Storm Warning and High Surf Warning remain in effect as the storm passes north of the state. Forecasters said the greatest impacts will come from dangerous surf, storm surge and elevated tides, particularly along east-facing shores. Honolulu Ocean Safety officials said conditions have already begun changing. “It’s starting to rise up a little bit. The swell direction has definitely changed,” said Lt. Peter Erwin with Honolulu Ocean Safety. “We’re at warning level now, so we’re keeping an eye out and really just educating and hoping the public stays safe and is aware of what’s going on.”
Officials are urging the public to stay away from hazardous shoreline areas, including Makapuu tide pools and Halona blowhole, where large waves can sweep people into the ocean without warning. “We’re genuinely trying to keep everyone away from these areas and to use common sense and be aware of your surroundings,” Erwin said.
Emergency managers across the state said they have been preparing for Fausto for days, even as the forecast has improved. Kauaʻi Emergency Management Administrator Elton Ushio said more than 150 state, county and federal partners met Monday morning to coordinate preparations. “Being the first storm of the season, now is the time to get your kit ready and go over plans with family, friends and neighbors and make sure everyone is aware and ready just in case,” Ushio said. Ushio said Kauaʻi is now outside the cone of uncertainty, but officials continue to closely monitor the forecast because even a small shift in the storm’s track could change local impacts.
On Hawaiʻi Island, Mayor Kimo Alameda said the risk of significant flooding has decreased, though isolated showers remain possible, especially on the Hamakua Coast. “We might get some rain on the Hamakua side of the island, but there’s a low probability of flooding, so that’s good news,” Alameda said. County crews have also been preparing generators, equipment and shelters should they become necessary. Officials continue to remind beachgoers to follow Ocean Safety warnings, avoid entering the water at closed beaches and remember that beach parks can close without notice as conditions change.
Emergency managers also said Fausto serves as a reminder that the Central Pacific hurricane season typically becomes more active in August and September, making now a good time to review emergency plans and disaster supply kits.
- Check your emergency kits and fill up on supplies. 14 days of food, water, medication.
- Charge your batteries and have flashlights handy.
- Fill up your gas tank on your car.
- Check in with family and friends: how you will get in contact and where you will go during an emergency or evacuation?
- Know your zone: check if you are in a flood prone area or exposed to strong winds.
- Prepare your home: trim trees, clean gutters, seal gaps, bring in loose outdoor items.
- Check insurance policy and have information handy.
More information is available on the National Weather Service site. Watch the news and stay informed. Please share this information with family, friends, and neighbors.
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