Civil Defense: Heavy Rains Begin Tonight

Hawai‘i Island Civil Defense has posted a Tropical Storm Darby update for Friday, July 22, at 5 p.m.

The National Weather Service has issued a Tropical Storm Warning for Hawaii County.

A tropical Storm Warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected in Hawaii County within 36 hours. A high surf warning for east facing shores is also in effect.

As of 5 p.m. today, Tropical Storm Darby is located about 205 miles east-southeast of Hilo moving to the west at 12 miles per hour.

Maximum sustained winds are 60 miles per hour with higher gusts.

The public is advised to be storm-ready. Heavy rains are expected to begin affecting Hawai‘i Island tonight.

Residents are urged to complete storm preparations before nightfall, and stay off the roads if at all possible.

In anticipation of possible damage to public and private property, an emergency proclamation was signed by Mayor Billy Kenoi at noon today.

Should power be lost or access be blocked, ensure you have prescription medications, ice, water, oxygen, backup power and fuel if needed.

To keep everyone safe as Tropical Storm Darby approaches, all camping and pavilion reservations at county and state parks have been cancelled.

Lava viewing and swimming pools are closed through Sunday.

All state and county park facilities and remote areas of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park are closed until further notice.

Hele-On Bus service will be suspended Saturday until further notice. Resumption of service will depend on road and weather conditions.

Solid Waste Transfer Stations and Landfills will also be closed Saturday.

Umauma Bridge on Highway 19 will be closed starting at midnight with a detour through Old Mamalahoa Highway.

If possible and safe, shelter in place or with family and friends.

Otherwise, the following pet-friendly emergency shelters are open:

• Waiakea High
• Kalanianaole Elementary
• Kea‘au High
• Pahoa High
• Honoka‘a High and Intermediate
• Kealakehe High
• Konawaena High
• Ka‘u High

Other shelters that are not able to accommodate pets are open at Hilo High, Laupahoehoe Community Charter School, Mountain View Elementary, Waikoloa Elementary, and Kohala High and Elementary.

Bring your own bedding, food, water, medicines and any personal items you may need.