The greatest loss of life due to hurricanes is caused by coastal flooding known as storm surge. In Hawai‘i, water levels rise primarily from high waves generated by storm winds and from low atmospheric pressure near the eye of the storm. Storm surge is often amplified as streams flooded by heavy rain empty into the ocean. Large, unpredictable waves and strong erratic coastal currents make any form of ocean activity dangerous.

HOW TO AVOID BECOMING A VICTIM!

• Never go near the ocean during a tropical storm or hurricane.
• Evacuate low-lying areas when advised by local authorities.

In Hawai‘i, tsunami evacuation zones are used as danger zones for hurricane storm surge.