Tropical Storm Hawaii | From a Local Perspective

It comes as no surprise that this isn’t a normal week here with two Hawaii hurricanes heading our way between tomorrow and Tuesday. The Big Island appears poised to receive the brunt of the storms with strong winds, heavy rain, large surf and coastal surges. This could also be true for Maui. Flash flooding and windy conditions are a likely throughout the state during the next week.

We were at Costco on Monday night on Kauai and as you can see business was anything but normal with huge crowds, long lines and the primary shopping cart items turning to toilet paper and bottled water.

Where do we get our storm information?

Instead of relying on news media which can sometimes distort stories like this, we go instead to NOAA’s Central Pacific Hurricane Center for a more honest evaluation. There we tend to read “forecast discussions” from meteorologists about Hurricane Iselle and Hurricane Julio. As of today, they have issued a hurricane warning for the Big Island and a tropical storm warning for Maui. The rest of us are thus far expecting only heavy rain and stronger winds.

Our tip for visitors as well is to rely on NOAA as the best source for storm related information. 

Hawaii Airlines and some accommodations waive change fees

If you’re traveling to or from Hawaii, you’ll be glad to know that Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, Island Air and United Airlines have all announced waiver of reservation change fees under specific conditions for passengers changing plans due to the storms. Some hotels and vacation rental companies may also waive change fees for this period.

Why we panic

For those of us on Kauai and throughout Hawaii, we still vividly recall the devastation caused in 1992 when Hurricane Iniki struck. Many remember Hurricane Eva which also caused enormous damage just ten years earlier. In addition, facing two storms only a few days apart is both unusual and provides an especially serious wake-up call. It reminds those of us living in Hawaii that we are on small and vulnerable islands far away from the mainland.

Hurricanes in Hawaii

Hawaii has had three hurricanes that directly hit the state in the past 65 years.

What we did this week

Prepared to stockpile water in trash cans and acquired a supply of bottled water. Filled up propane cylinders and car gas tanks. Checked and topped off food supplies and tarps. Tested to be sure the electric generator is working.