HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-03-11_11AMUpdateMultipleagenciesrespondtoweatherimpactsDEREK S.K. KAWAKAMI, MAYOR MICHAEL A. DAHILIG, MANAGING DIRECTOR
News Release
For Immediate Release: March 11, 2021
COUNTY OF KAUA‘I
KAUA‘I EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY
ELTON USHIO, ADMINISTRATOR
(808) 241-1800
11 A.M. UPDATE: Multiple agencies respond to weather impacts, Hanalei Hill landslide
Multiple agencies are responding to impacts caused by this week’s severe weather, following
state and county emergency disaster declarations. The Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency’s (KEMA)
Emergency Operations Center has been activated in coordination with county, state, federal and non-
governmental partners.
A large landslide at the Hanalei Hill has closed off all vehicular access on Kūhiō Highway just
prior to the Hanalei Bridge, essentially isolating the North Shore community. Hawai‘i Department of
Transportation officials report that debris is continuing to come off the slope. They are anticipating it
will take a day, weather permitting, for conditions to stabilize in order for personnel to assess and
conduct debris removal. Updates will be announced as emergency response plans develop.
“Our North Shore community has been through so much over the years, and again they are
called to overcome a great challenge with many unknowns at this time,” said Mayor Derek S.K.
Kawakami. “We want to assure our residents and visitors that we will get through this together. We
understand that more rain is anticipated for Kaua‘i through at least Friday, so right now the best action
to take is to shelter in place, stay off the roads, and stay tuned to updates which we will provide as more
information becomes available.”
First responders have been mobilized in the area and are also able to access the North Shore
community by boat and Air 1 operations for emergencies.
Due to limited access, the Kē‘ē and Hā‘ena lifeguard towers are currently closed. Lifeguards on
the North Roving Unit will be monitoring the Hanalei Bay area and are available to respond if necessary.
The state Department of Education announces that Hanalei Elementary School is currently
closed.
A Flash Flood Watch remains in effect for the island of Kaua‘i until at least Friday evening,
according to the National Weather Service. A Flash Flood Watch means that conditions may develop
that lead to flash flooding. Residents and visitors should monitor the weather and be prepared to take
action in the event that a Flash Flood Warning is issued.
For updates on road conditions and closures, please call 241-1725. Please do not call Kaua‘i
police 911 unless you have an emergency.
For weather updates call the National Weather Service automated weather line at 245-6001, or
visit the NWS website, www.weather.gov/hfo.
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