Civil Defense

Currently there is a flash flood warning for Kauaʻi so it's a good reminder to think about safety. We get a lot of rain here in winter but today is a little heavy in spots, 4 1/2 inches early this morning in Anahola seems the heaviest.

Even modest rainfall can result in flash floods since the rainfall over large parts of the island will flow through some smaller gulches and into streams quickly, and various conditions can cause water levels to rise rapidly. Even locally heavy rainfall far away further up the mountain can cause flash floods in low lying areas.

• Avoid low lying areas, streams, and rivers - head for higher ground
• Do not attempt to cross fast flowing water
• Do not drive through water you do not know how deep it is or is above the hubcaps

Weather service warnings in Hawaii can be monitored at http://www.prh.noaa.gov/hnl/watchwarn/.
On Kauaʻi you can also call (808) 245-6001 & (808) 245-3564 for latest alerts. Sadly, the web page seems to be a less than reliable source of information so the phone numbers and radio may be required. One would think that modern internet technology would be the best option for emergency information but apparently not so.

A "warning" is actually the highest level of alert and means that flooding in this case is occurring or likely imminent. A "watch" means that the risk of hazard is elevated. An "alert" is like a "warning" but for less serious level of hazard. Finally, an "outlook" advises of possible hazards.

Resources:

• The Kauaʻi Civil Defense has a lot of disaster preparation information for more information.
• The Hawaii weather service office has a ten minute video about hazardous weather.