Mayor Bissen Issues Emergency Proclamation for Impending Severe Weather
Mayor Richard Bissen of Maui County has declared an emergency proclamation in response to impending severe weather. The declaration, issued on February 7, 2026, anticipates significant impacts from heavy rain, flooding, and high winds, as predicted by the National Weather Service (NWS).
Emergency Proclamation Details
The emergency proclamation allows Maui County to access state and federal assistance. It also streamlines procedures for deploying resources and services efficiently to tackle emergency response and recovery efforts.
Key Preparations for Severe Weather
Mayor Bissen emphasized the importance of preparedness among residents and visitors. He encouraged the community to stay informed, create emergency plans, prepare emergency kits, secure property, and look out for one another.
- Stay updated on weather conditions.
- Develop and maintain an emergency plan.
- Assemble an emergency kit.
- Ensure property is securely protected.
As of now, Waiehu Municipal Golf Course and the third entrance of Kanahā Beach Park have been closed due to downed trees and flooding. Other county facilities remain open, with no additional closures reported.
Collaborative Efforts
The Maui Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is coordinating with various county departments and partners for preparedness efforts. They are focusing on potential impacts from high winds and heavy rainfall expected to arrive later today and continue into Monday.
- The Department of Human Concerns is ensuring availability of beds at the Ka Hale A Ke Ola Homeless Resource Center.
- MEMA is collaborating with the Red Cross to identify potential shelter locations for vulnerable regions.
- Department of Public Works (DPW) crews are clearing drains and preparing for adverse weather conditions.
- DPW is also arranging for temporary stop signs to enable four-way stops in case traffic signals fail.
- The Department of Water Supply is topping off fuel tanks and getting generators ready.
Weather Warnings Issued
The NWS in Honolulu has issued a Flood Watch and a High Wind Warning for the main Hawaiian Islands. The Flood Watch is active from this afternoon until Monday afternoon. The High Wind Warning is effective from 6 a.m. Sunday to 6 p.m. Monday, forecasting wind gusts up to 60 mph.
Residents are advised to monitor the weather closely. The NWS has noted that Maui County is anticipated to see the most severe impacts from the storm.
For the latest weather information, visit the NWS Honolulu website and subscribe to MEMA alerts for updates on the emergency situation.
