Gov. Green urges Hawai’i to continue to prepare for severe weather, with the worst still ahead

Hawaiʻi Gov. Josh Green urged residents across Hawaiʻi to stay off the roads if possible and to prepare for flooding and damaging winds as a Kona storm system moves across the islands, bringing heavy rain, landslides, and potential power outages.

During his live address on Thursday, Green said the state is already seeing significant rainfall and warned the worst conditions are still ahead.

“We are getting a lot of rain right now,” Green said. “There is going to be flooding in different areas of the state; some of the roads are going to be inaccessible. It is dangerous out there with some debris right now.”

Green said crews with the state Department of Transportation are cleaning up debris from the road, “making sure things are safe.”

The governor said rainfall totals could reach 15 inches or more in some areas through the weekend, with winds in some areas reaching 40 miles per hour, with gusts up to 60 miles per hour, as the storm strengthens. This increases the risk of flash floods, landslides and debris.

A state emergency proclamation issued earlier this week remains in effect until March 18.

Due to severe weather expected across the islands, all public schools and state offices on Oʻahu, Maui, and Kauaʻi will be closed on Friday, March 13. A decision on potential closures for Hawaiʻi Island will be made late Thursday or early Friday morning as conditions develop.

Green said the decision was made to keep families off the roads during the storm’s most dangerous period.

The Hawai’i National Guard also has activated personnel and equipment in all four counties to assist with rescues, debris removal and emergency response if needed.

Airports remain open but travelers are urged to check with airlines as some interisland flights may be canceled due to weather conditions. Power outages are also possible if strong winds topple trees or powerlines.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official weather updates and prepare for rapidly changing conditions.

The Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency website provides clear guidance on preparing for severe weather and a wide range of disasters. Click here to learn more.

For up-to-date weather information, click here.