Hawai‘i County officials advise residents to prepare for possible Kiko impacts

Hawai‘i County officials urge residents to prepare for possible storm impacts at Hurricane Kiko approaches.

Kiko was a Category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds near 130 mph as of 11 a.m. It was located 1,195 miles east-southeast of Hilo and moving west-northwest at near 10 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. Kiko’s track is projected to take it northeast of Hawaiʻi Island as it weakens to a tropical storm early next week, but even small shifts in its path could cause significant changes in its impact to the island and the rest of Hawai‘i.

Hawaiʻi Island could see storm-driven high surf starting as early as Sunday, and strong winds and heavy rain starting as early as Monday morning.

“September is in the heart of hurricane season, and even a near-miss storm can bring serious damage, injuries or loss of life,” said Hawai‘i County Mayor Kimo Alameda. “It’s not clear yet what Kiko will bring our way, but we know the best way to reduce risk is to be prepared and make a plan to stay safe.”

Depending on Kiko’s path, Talmadge Magno, Hawai‘i County Civil Defense Administrator, said the hurricane could bring flooding rains, dangerous waves and rip currents, and damaging winds.

“Now is the time to check your preparations, review your plans and make sure you can receive emergency messages,” Magno said.

The county also advised making sure residents have three days of food, water, medication, and other necessities for each family member (including pets). Other items you should have on hand are a flashlight, a battery-powered radio and copies of important documents.

It’s advised that residents should set up a meeting place if they get separated from their loved ones and have a point of contact off-island if local communications are disrupted.

If you have to leave your home, make sure you have at least a half tank of gas in your vehicle.

With potentially high winds, residents should trim tree limbs and secure awnings, umbrellas and other objects that could become airborne and damage roof or windows. Remove debris that may block drainage and increase the chance of flooding.

Sign up for emergency alert messages on the Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense website at: bit.ly/HCCDAlerts.