High winds swept across the Hawaiian Islands on Sunday as a significant storm rolled through, with more severe weather anticipated overnight and into Monday. In light of the hazardous conditions, public schools and libraries across the state will be closed on Monday, and all non-essential government workers are ordered to stay home. The Legislature and courts will also cease operations as intense winds and rain continue to batter the region.
During a press conference on Sunday morning, Governor Josh Green highlighted the decision to close the state as a precautionary measure, emphasizing the importance of public safety. “We just want to make sure everybody is very safe. So mostly we’re taking precautions,” Green stated, recounting an incident involving a fallen tree that had struck a power line.
Winds have been recorded at speeds up to 60 miles per hour, prompting the governor to declare an emergency proclamation as state officials brace for worsening conditions. Power outages have already impacted about 12,700 residents due to debris and downed trees, with crews working tirelessly to restore power after previously helping 45,000 residents regain electricity within 24 hours.
As of late Sunday, major outages were concentrated on Oʻahu, particularly affecting areas like Nānākuli, Makakilo, and Honolulu, with additional outages occurring in Maui County and on Hawaiʻi Island. Emergency proclamations have also been issued by local leaders, including Maui Mayor Richard Bissen and Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi, who ordered non-essential county offices to remain closed at least through Monday.
The National Weather Service has issued flood watches and high wind warnings for all main Hawaiian Islands, with conditions expected to improve somewhat on Tuesday. Heavy rainfall has already led to rapidly rising rivers and localized flooding, raising concerns among officials regarding landslides and falling trees.
Emergency preparations are underway, with the Hawaiʻi National Guard activated to assist in delivering supplies or facilitating evacuations in flooded areas. State parks and forest areas have been closed to the public, and local officials are urging residents to avoid travel unless necessary.
Although many had intended to join Super Bowl festivities, officials are pleading with residents to remain indoors, noting potential danger on the roads from fallen debris and flooding. “There’s going to be reasons for people to stop in front of you that you don’t even expect,” said Transportation Director Ed Sniffen, as officials work to mitigate the impact of the storm and keep the public safe.
The storm’s rapid developments serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of severe weather, but the collective response from state and local authorities shows a commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents.