Tropical Storm Nolo Update

The following is an update from the National Hurricane Center as of 11 am Wednesday:

A Hurricane Watch has been issued for Hawaii County.

A Hurricane Watch is in effect for Hawaii County. A Hurricane Watch means that hurricane conditions are possible within the watch area. A watch is typically issued 48 hours before the anticipated first occurrence of tropical-storm-force winds, conditions that make outside preparations difficult or dangerous. Interests elsewhere in the Hawaiian Islands should closely monitor the progress of this system. For storm information specific to your area, including possible inland watches and warnings, please monitor products issued by your local National Weather Service forecast office.

Click on this link for the latest advisory from the National Hurricane Center.

The forecast indicates that Tropical Storm Nolo will strengthen to a major hurricane as it moves south of the island chain. Everyone should be prepared in the event there is any change in the track of the tropical cyclone that could bring it closer to Oahu.

Click on this link for the latest updates from the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (HIEMA).

Here are some planning and preparation tips to follow:

• Sign up for HNL Alert by following this link: HNL Alert  Tell your family, friends, and neighbors.
• Create a plan and know what to pack and/or ensure is safe in the event of a major disaster. The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency has published a list of resources that can help you plan according to your personal situation. The Department of Emergency Management recommends having a two-week emergency supply kit as well as a ‘Go-Bag’ in the event you have to evacuate. If you know of any vulnerable family, friends, or neighbors – consider helping them to prepare as they will have additional, specific, needs that need to be considered prior to, during, and after a major disaster.
• Determine how you can harden your home and if you should shelter in place. This is a link to the Homeowner’s Handbook that is published by the University of Hawaii Sea Grant program. Page 59 is a chart that summarizes whether or not – based on the date of and type of construction – you should shelter in place. The book can be downloaded and is a very good reference for disaster preparedness planning. If you do need to evacuate, determine if you have a friend or family member whose home can be a shelter. If there is no safe option, please watch the news and/or check the Department of Emergency Management (DEM) website to find out which evacuation shelters will be open in your area and if its pet friendly.
• Understand what to do in the event you hear the emergency siren. Here is a link to the Emergency Siren reference page – which contains the locations of all sirens. When you hear the siren, turn on the radio or local television and listen for more instructions should it sound due to an emergency. Sign up for HNL Alert to receive custom notifications.
• Get trained to help the community post disaster. The Community Emergency Response Team (aka CERT) is a program that encourages ‘neighbors helping neighbors’. Should there be a statewide disaster, first responders and the government’s ability to respond to all areas affected will be limited. Communities will have to rely on its own residents to work together to address the immediate needs. Upcoming classes are available on the City and County of Honolulu website.