On Hawai‘i Island northeast trade winds prevail throughout most of the year, generally blowing at 10-20 mph, but:

• Strong gusty trades may reach 40-60 mph.
• Storms approaching from the south and southeast, called Kona storms, can produce hurricane strength winds.

Will a hurricane hit Hawai‘i Island?
Thus far the island has been spared from a major hurricane strike, but since 1950 five storms have caused extensive damage elsewhere in the Hawaiian Islands.

HOW TO AVOID BECOMING A VICTIM!

Plan ahead:

• Know the locations of the nearest designated hurricane shelters, usually public schools with reinforced buildings.

When a hurricane warning is issued, Civil Defense will announce which shelters are open.

• Prepare a family plan noting shelter locations and telephone numbers of friends or family on other islands, or the mainland, to use as a central contact point should you become separated or local phone service is saturated.

When a Hurricane or Tropical Storm Warning is issued:

• Follow instructions issued by Civil Defense and monitor radio or television for advisories, watches, warnings and update information. (*see map)
• If time permits, complete preparation activities. Board up windows and store loose objects.
• Evacuate to the nearest shelter if you are in a low-lying coastal area, along ridge lines exposed to strong winds, in an area subject to stream flooding, or in a wooden or lightly constructed building.

If ordered to evacuate, leave immediately!

Remember: Hurricane Season in Hawai‘i is June 1 – November 30.

A Hurricane or Tropical Storm Warning means hurricane or tropical storm conditions are expected to occur within 24 hours. Be prepared.

O ka makani ke ala o ka ‘ino.

Wind is the source of storms.