Gov. Josh Green has issued an emergency proclamation in advance of a severe storm expected to strike the state this week.
The National Weather Service has warned of a Kona low — a powerful seasonal cyclone — that is expected to impact the western end of the state by Tuesday, and will spread eastward across the island chain throughout the week. Consequently, NWS has issued a flood watch for Ni‘ihau and Kaua‘i to begin Tuesday, and another flood watch for O‘ahu to begin Tuesday evening.
“Confidence is increasing that strong to severe thunderstorms may develop Wednesday into the weekend,” reads a special weather statement NWS issued Monday morning. “Damaging winds will likely be the primary hazard with these storms, though large hail cannot be ruled out.”
In response to this, Green has declared a state of emergency, authorizing the mobilization of the Hawai‘i National Guard as needed, and suspending a range of laws — such as state procurement laws, public employee collective bargaining statutes and other environmental control measures — in order to allocate resources more efficiently.
“By issuing this emergency proclamation now, we are ensuring that state and county agencies have the resources and flexibility needed to respond quickly to flooding, severe weather and any impacts this storm may bring,” Green said in a statement.
The City and County of Honolulu is advising residents to prepare for the storm by securing outdoor loose items and avoiding driving through standing water or flooded streets. Residents and visitors are also advised to check with lifeguards before entering the ocean.
“Kona storms can intensify quickly and bring dangerous conditions, including heavy rain, flash flooding, damaging winds, and even the possibility of isolated tornadoes,” said Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “Our city teams are closely monitoring the situation and preparing for potential impacts, and we urge residents to do the same.”
The emergency relief period will extend until Wednesday, March 18, unless Green terminates it earlier.
