Hawaiʻi Storm Update: State Closes, Thousands Face Power Outages

Hawaiʻi is currently facing significant disruptions due to a severe storm that swept through the islands, initiating multiple closures and power outages. High winds, reaching up to 60 miles per hour, prompted state officials to take precautionary measures.

Statewide Closures and Emergency Declared

Governor Josh Green announced the closure of all public schools and libraries statewide on Monday. Additionally, non-essential workers have been ordered to stay home, and essential services will remain operational. The state Legislature and courts will also be closed as a precautionary step against the intense weather.

In a press conference, Governor Green emphasized safety, citing specific incidents of trees falling on power lines. “We just want to make sure everybody is very safe,” he said, highlighting the risks from the storm.

Power Outages Affect Thousands

Hawaiian Electric Co. reported significant disruptions in power supply. By late Sunday afternoon, approximately 12,700 residents were without power, largely because of debris falling on power lines. Already, crews had restored power to 45,000 customers in the previous 24 hours.

• Power outages primarily affected Oʻahu, particularly Nānākuli, Makakilo, ʻAiea, Kalihi, Honolulu, and Mānoa.
• Nearly 160 residents on Hawaiʻi island and about 350 in Maui County also faced outages.

School & University Closures

All University of Hawaiʻi campuses will remain closed on Monday, cancelling both in-person and online classes. The Department of Education confirmed that schools will not switch to online learning and emphasized the importance of instructional time in its decision-making.

Private Schools and Other Facilities

Private schools across the state have also announced closures. Institutions like Maui Preparatory Academy and ʻIolani School will remain closed as a precaution. Child care centers, including Kamaʻāina Kids, are also suspending services on Monday.

Weather Forecast and Safety Measures

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch and high wind warning. Conditions are expected to deteriorate before improving on Tuesday. Officials warn that heavy rain could lead to hazardous conditions, including landslides.

• Over 9,000 customers on Oʻahu without power as of Sunday afternoon.
• Hawaiʻi island experienced flash flooding with rivers rising to dangerous levels.

The Hawaiʻi National Guard has been activated to assist in emergency responses. Restrictions have been placed on state parks and forests, with closures announced for camping and hiking areas. The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is also closed to the public.

Advisory for Residents

Officials urge residents to remain indoors and avoid non-essential travel as weather continues to worsen. Traffic disruptions are reported due to fallen trees and blocked roads. Those with housing insecurity are being directed to available shelters.

For the latest updates on the situation, residents can sign up for alerts through the Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency. Further guidance on disaster preparedness is available at ready.hawaii.gov.