Civil Defense Update

This is a Civil Defense Message. This is a Hurricane Madeline update for Tuesday, August 30th at 5:30 AM.

The National Weather Service has issued a Tropical Storm Warning for the Island of Hawaii.  A tropical storm warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected within 36 hours.

As of 5 AM today the National Weather Service reports Hurricane Madeline is located about 445 miles east of Hilo, moving west at 10 miles per hour.  Maximum sustained winds of 120 miles per hour.

The following hazards are anticipated:

Tropical Storm force winds are possible over Hawaii County on Wednesday.

Ocean swells generated by Madeline are expected to reach the Hawaiian Islands over the next couple of days, possibly becoming damaging along some coastlines Wednesday and Thursday.

Heavy rains associated with Madeline may reach Hawaii County on Wednesday, and may impact other Hawaiian Islands later Wednesday into Friday. This rainfall may lead to dangerous flash floods and mudslides.

In preparation for Hurricane Madeline, the public is advised to be StormReady.

Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit. Include a flashlight with fresh batteries, cash, first aid supplies, and any medication or supplies specific to you or your family members.

Plan how to communicate with family members. Create an evacuation plan for your household. Bring in or secure outdoor furniture and other items that could blow away. Keep your vehicle fueled and cell phone charged.

To help preserve water availability through the storm, the Department of Water Supply asks customers to minimize non-essential use of water, such as irrigation, at this time.

Find more StormReady tips and sign up for notifications at hawaiicounty.gov. Civil Defense will maintain close communications with the National Weather Service. Continue to monitor your local radio broadcasts for up-to-date information.