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.