Hurricane Felicia headed towards Hawai’i
The Civil Defense in Hawai’i has issued a tropical storm watch for the Big Island as Hurricane Felicia approaches. Flash flood warnings have been issued for Monday and Tuesday. The force of Hurricane Felicia is expected to bring heavy rains, high surfs, and strong winds.
Hawaii247.org reports that it looks like Felicia could be downgraded to a tropical storm later on today, but the storm should still be monitored. The online periodical offers these tips:
“When a Hurricane or Tropical Storm Watch is issued:
- Fuel and service family vehicles.
- Prepare to cover all windows and door openings with boards, shutters or other shielding materials.
- Check food and water supplies. Have clean, air-tight containers on hand to store at least two weeks of drinking water (14 gallons per person), and stock up on canned provisions. Keep a small cooler with frozen gel packs handy for packing refrigerated items.
- Check prescription medicines – obtain at least 10 days to 2 weeks supply.
- Stock up on extra batteries for radios, flashlights, and lanterns.
- Store and secure outdoor lawn furniture and other loose, lightweight objects, such as garbage cans and garden tools.
- Check and replenish first-aid supplies.
- Have on hand an extra supply of cash.
For the Central Pacific Ocean starting with the 2009 hurricane season, a Hurricane/Tropical Storm Warning means hurricane/tropical storm conditions are expected in the specified area of the Warning, usually within 36 hours.
When a Hurricane or Tropical Storm Warning is issued:
- Follow instructions issued by civil defense. Leave immediately if ordered to do so.
- Complete preparation activities, such as boarding up windows and storing loose objects.
- Evacuate areas that might be affected by storm surge flooding. If evacuating, leave early.
- Notify neighbors and a family member outside of the warned area of your evacuation plans.”
Read about what to do after a storm.
Tags: flash flood, Hawaii, Hurricane Felicia, recovering after a hurricane
