Key Highlights
- Hawaii state shut down due to severe storm with intense winds and rain.
- 12,700 people without power across the state by late Sunday afternoon.
- Courts and non-essential workers ordered home; essential services only operate.
- Super Bowl viewing affected as people advised to stay home out of safety concerns.
Hawaii’s latest storm has sent shockwaves through the islands, leading Governor Josh Green to declare a state shutdown. The governor warned residents that conditions were worsening and urged everyone to stay safe by staying indoors if possible. While Super Bowl fans may have had different plans, the reality is they’re left watching on television instead of at the stadium.
Power Outages
Hawaiian Electric Co. reported 12,700 people without power as a result of fallen trees and debris disrupting power lines. Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative faced similar challenges but managed to restore power to another 45,000 residents in the last day.
Emergency Measures
The National Weather Service issued flood watches and high wind warnings for all main Hawaiian Islands until Monday afternoon. The weather was expected to improve on Tuesday after reaching its peak intensity Sunday evening into Monday morning.
Shelter and Safety
Hawaii island had been hit particularly hard, with some rivers quadrupling in height, causing flash flooding concerns. The state activated the Hawaiʻi National Guard to assist with supply deliveries and potential evacuations. State parks were closed to the public due to heavy rain and high winds.
Community Impact
The Department of Transportation closed Waipahu District Park so participants in the city’s homelessness program HONU could use it as shelter. Officials on Maui directed unhoused individuals to the Ka Hale A Keola Homeless Resource Center, where a temporary evacuation site was set up at King Kekaulike High School.
While the storm was expected to lessen by Tuesday, residents were reminded that heavy rain and strong winds could still pose hazards. The Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency provided guidelines on preparing for severe weather.
Ancillary Closures
Schools across Oahu, including public schools and private institutions like ʻIolani School, closed their campuses to ensure student safety. The University of Hawaii system also shut down its operations for the day.
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