By Staff Reports
(Maui) – The Maui County Civil Defense Agency today urged residents to begin making preparations for dangerous surf impacting shorelines, high winds and heavy rain as Hurricane Madeline continues to make its way to the Hawaiian Islands. A second storm system, Lester, is currently a hurricane in the Eastern Pacific and while a large degree of uncertainty exists, it is imperative that residents exercise caution in advance of the storms.
“It’s important that our community pays close attention to the two hurricanes that are rapidly approaching our islands,” said Anna Foust, Maui County Emergency Management Officer. “The recent storm systems that have passed through our state have given us ample opportunity to prepare for bad weather, but instead of being complacent, now is the time to plan for the worst while hoping for the best.”
In preparation for the storm, residents are urged to assemble emergency kits and be prepared with seven days of food, water, medicine and other emergency supplies. Other storm-prep tasks include:
– Monitoring media for the most recent updates on storm conditions;
– Signing up for Maui County Emergency Alerts to receive official information;
– Securing any loose objects on property that could become airborne; and
– Having an evacuation plan ready and identifying a safe location to wait out the storm. This is especially important for anyone living in a flood area, in case it becomes necessary to leave their home.
A full list of preparedness tips can be found at www.mauicounty.gov/civildefense.
High winds may cause widespread power outages; to report a fallen power line or outage, contact Maui Electric’s trouble line at 871-7777. For residents on Molokai and Lanai, call toll free: 1 (877) 871-8461.
Maui County Civil Defense Agency will continue to monitor the situation. Pre-recorded advisories and notifications are available 24-hours a day on the Maui County Automated Information System (AIS) by calling 986-1200.
Online updates may be found on the Maui County website or by checking the County Facebook or Twitter feeds at www.facebook.com/countyofmaui/ or www.twitter.com/CountyofMaui. The Maui Civil Defense Agency Facebook page can also be found at www.facebook.com/mauicivildefense.