City urges O‘ahu residents to prepare as tropical system approaches Hawai‘i this weekend
HONOLULU – The City and County of Honolulu is closely monitoring a developing tropical system in the Central Pacific that could bring impacts to the Hawaiian Islands, including Oʻahu, this weekend.
The system, currently designated CP93, is located more than 1,000 miles east-southeast of Hawaiʻi and is expected to strengthen into a tropical depression or tropical storm in the coming days. While there remains significant uncertainty surrounding its eventual track and intensity, City officials are urging residents not to wait and to begin preparations now.
Even ahead of the system’s arrival, Oʻahu could experience gusty winds and an increased risk of wildfires as weather conditions begin to change. Residents should remain especially cautious with any activity that could ignite a fire and should secure loose outdoor items before winds increase.
“This is the time to prepare, not panic,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “We still do not know exactly where this system will track or how strong it will become, but we know enough to take it seriously. I am asking everyone on Oʻahu to use the next several days wisely. Check your emergency supplies, make sure your family has a plan, secure your property, and stay informed. The earlier we prepare, the better positioned we will be to respond to whatever comes our way.”
The City’s Department of Emergency Management is closely monitoring the system and coordinating with the National Weather Service, Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency and City departments and agencies as the forecast develops.
Depending on the eventual track and strength of the system, Oʻahu could experience heavy rainfall, strong winds, dangerous surf, coastal impacts and possible flooding. The forecast is expected to become clearer as the system develops and moves closer to the Hawaiian Islands.
Residents should take the following steps now:
- Review and update your family emergency plan, including where you will go if you need to evacuate.
- Assemble or replenish emergency supplies, including enough food, water, medications and essential items to last at least 14 days.
- Make sure you have flashlights, batteries, portable chargers and other supplies in the event of a power outage.
- Secure outdoor furniture, equipment and other loose objects that could become hazardous in strong winds.
- Clear gutters, drains and areas around your property that could contribute to flooding.
- Keep vehicles fueled and avoid waiting until the last minute to purchase essential supplies.
- Know whether your home is in a flood, coastal or other hazard area and be prepared to relocate if necessary.
- Sign up for HNL Alert emergency notifications by visiting hnlalert.gov or texting HNLALERT to 888777.
The City is also reviewing operational plans and preparations across departments to ensure personnel, equipment and resources are ready should the system pose a greater threat to Oʻahu.
Residents should continue to monitor official forecasts and avoid relying on individual computer models or unverified information on social media. The City will provide additional information regarding any potential closures, emergency operations or other actions as conditions warrant.
For emergency preparedness information, including guidance on disaster supplies, evacuation planning and hurricane preparedness, visit www.Honolulu.gov/dem.
The Central Pacific hurricane season continues through November 30.
The City and County of Honolulu will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.
—PAU—
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