It’s time to prepare for hurricane season

Last September, Hurricane Olivia barreled toward the Hawaiian Islands and made landfall on Maui and Lanai as a tropical storm. Although not a hurricane at the time of impact, Olivia still brought heavy rains and strong winds causing more than $25 million in damage statewide.

During hurricane season, which spans June through November, four to five tropical depressions, named storms and hurricanes usually occur in the Pacific Ocean basin. However, in 2019, the National Weather Service predicts an above-average hurricane season with the possibility of five to eight storms threatening Hawaii.

Prepare now

With El Nino climate patterns creating the perfect conditions to brew cyclones, it’s time to evaluate if you and your family are ready for the season with the appropriate supplies. Early preparation allows Lanai residents to avoid a last-minute rush for supplies when a hurricane or tropical storm approaches the island. Having ample provisions ensures your family will weather the aftermath of a destructive storm, especially if the barge is delayed for a prolonged period of time.

Hurricane Kit Checklist

Prepare for a hurricane or natural disaster by creating an emergency kit with the following supplies:

• Fourteen-day supply of water (minimum of 2 quarts per person per day)
• Fourteen-day supply of non-perishable, ready-to-eat food
• Portable radio
• Whistle
• Flashlight
• Extra batteries
• Candles
• Waterproof matches or lighter
• First aid kit and any special medication
• Manual can opener
• Sleeping bags or blankets
• Change of clothing for each family member
• Personal hygiene, sanitary supplies and diapers
• Cooler and blue ice packs
• Fill your car up with gas
• Any other items to help you survive without electricity, gas, or water

Store the items in a convenient location at home and in a box or container that is easy to transport to the island’s evacuation shelter, Lanai High & Elementary School.

How to prepare your home from an approaching storm

In the event of a direct hit from a storm, low-cost reinforcement can help structures withstand strong winds and rain. When a hurricane warning is issued, here are steps you can take to protect your home and help ensure the safety of others around you:

• Tie down or store loose objects
• Store propane tanks
• Bring potted plants into the house
• Prune back plants and trees
• Remove and store lanai furniture
• Unplug electric appliances not in use
• Shutter or board all windows and glass doors
• Wedge sliding doors at top
• Gather insurance documents and place in waterproof containers
• Secure loose roof materials with roofing cement or sealant

Additional hurricane preparedness information

For more information on hurricane preparedness, visit www.mauicounty.gov/260/Hurricane-Preparedness-and-Safety-Info.