By Staff Reports
(Kauai)– The National Weather Service has issued a Fire Weather Watch for the leeward areas of Kaua‘i County that goes into effect from Aug. 30 at noon to Aug. 31 at 6 p.m. The Kaua‘i Fire Department urges the public to remain vigilant to prevent fires.
The Kaua‘i Fire Department is advising the following to prevent fires:
- Refrain from ALL outdoor burning, including cooking;
- Avoid the use of mechanized equipment outdoors, including the use of yardwork equipment;
- Do not drive your vehicle in dry, tall grass. The underside of your vehicle is hot and can easily ignite grasses from your exhaust muffler;
- Ensure trailer chains do not drag on the ground;
- Be aware of wind direction and gusts that could spread fire rapidly;
- Have an escape route to a clear area safe from rapid-fire spread; and
- Report any possible fires – including signs of smoke or flames – by calling Kaua‘i Police Department Dispatch at 808-241-1711.
A Fire Weather Watch means that critical fire weather conditions are forecast to occur. Listen for later forecasts and possible Red Flag Warnings.
According to the National Weather Service, the combination of strong and gusty trade winds of 15 to 30 mph with gusts of 40 to 45 mph and low relative humidity could produce extreme fire behavior on Wednesday and Thursday. Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and be difficult to control.
Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Again, all outdoor burning is not recommended.
The watch may be extended, dropped, or modified as conditions develop.
For weather updates, call the National Weather Service automated weather line at 808-245-6001, or visit the NWS website, www.weather.gov/hfo.
To sign up for the county’s emergency notification service, Wireless Emergency Notification System (WENS), please go to the county’s website, www.kauai.gov, or call the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.
For more information about fire safety, please contact the Fire Prevention Bureau at 808-241-4985.