NR 08-31-26 (Officials continue to monitor Tropical Storm Lowell and Hurricane Karina)

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County of Kaua'i, State of Hawaii

*DEREK S.K. KAWAKAMI, *MAYOR
*REIKO MATSUYAMA*, MANAGING DIRECTOR






*News Release*

For Immediate Release: August 31, 2026






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COUNTY OF KAUA‘I

KAUA‘I EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY

ELTON USHIO, ADMINISTRATOR

 (808) 241-1800



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Officials continue to monitor Tropical Storm Lowell and Hurricane Karina


LĪHUʻE – The Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency (KEMA) is monitoring Tropical Storm Lowell and Hurricane Karina as both systems track across the Pacific.

According to preliminary forecasts from the National Weather Service, Tropical Storm Lowell is anticipated to pass south of the Hawaiian Islands. At this time, Tropical Storm Lowell is not expected to directly impact Kauaʻi, although stronger and gustier trade winds and increased rainfall are possible later this week.

KEMA continues to coordinate closely with county, state, and federal partners, as well as with non-governmental organization and community partners, and will provide updates as conditions warrant.

*Weather Forecast*

Breezy trade winds are expected to continue across Kauaʻi through at least the middle of the week, with passing showers primarily affecting windward and mauka areas, particularly overnight and during the early morning hours.

As Tropical Storm Lowell passes south of the islands, trade winds on Kauaʻi are expected to become stronger and gustier Thursday into Friday. Wind gusts could exceed 50 mph in some areas, particularly in exposed locations.

The bulk of Tropical Storm Lowell’s moisture is expected to remain south of the state. However, some outer rainbands could bring periods of increased rainfall to Kauaʻi around Friday or Saturday.

The forecast for Labor Day weekend remains uncertain. Changes in the system’s track could bring Tropical Storm Lowell closer to the islands than currently anticipated, and Hurricane Karina may also be in the vicinity of the Hawaiian Islands later in the weekend. Residents are encouraged to continue monitoring official forecasts, as conditions and projected tracks may change.

Forecasts can change, and KEMA encourages residents to stay informed through kauai.gov [ https://www.kauai.gov/Home?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ], the County’s official social media channels, and other official sources.

*Refuge Areas*

No refuge areas are open at this time. Should conditions change and refuge areas be activated for this event, KEMA will issue news releases, update the County website and its Refuge Area Status Page, and, as appropriate, send notifications through the County’s Everbridge emergency notification system.

The public is reminded that refuge areas are evacuation options of last resort. In many cases, sheltering in place may be a good option, particularly if the home or structure is sound or hardened and located outside hazardous flood and storm-surge areas. KEMA released an updated Potential Refuge Area List in May, available online at www.kauai.gov/KEMA, which identifies facilities that may be considered for use during emergencies. Not every facility on the list will be opened during every emergency, and additional public or private facilities may also be activated depending on incident and operational needs.

*Preparedness*

County officials encourage the public to check and replenish their emergency disaster kits. Emergency disaster kits should include at least a 14-day supply of non-perishable food, one gallon of water per person per day, a battery-powered radio, a flashlight, an extra supply of prescription medicines, and other items tailored to individual and family needs. A smaller, portable go-kit is also recommended should you need to evacuate. County, state, and federal officials will continue to monitor the situation and actively coordinate in preparation for this potential event.

The public is advised to check conditions before venturing out for hiking, river, or beach excursions. River and stream crossings, recreational trails, and other outdoor recreation areas may quickly become hazardous. During severe weather, emergency rescues may not be possible. Do not cross swollen rivers or streams; always check with a lifeguard at any lifeguard station before entering the ocean. Know before you go.

*Standard tips to prepare for power outages from Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative include:*


* Use surge protectors to protect your appliances and equipment
* Turn off and unplug all unnecessary appliances or equipment
* Keep a portable battery-powered radio and flashlights with extra batteries
* Stay away from downed lines and report to 9-1-1
* Contact KIUC at 808-246-4300 to update your contact information & receive alerts

*Other important numbers and resources*

To stay updated, tune in to local media broadcast channels for the most current information. The following resources are available for emergency preparedness:


* Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency – kauai.gov/KEMA [ https://www.kauai.gov/Government/Departments-Agencies/Emergency-Management-Agency?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]
* National Weather Service – weather.gov/hfo [ https://www.weather.gov/hfo?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ], or automated weather line at 808-245-6001
* Kauaʻi Department of Water – 808-245-5400 and kauaiwater.org [ https://www.kauaiwater.org/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]
* Road and closure conditions – 808-241-1725

Officials remind the public to use 9-1-1 only for life-threatening or time-critical emergencies. Calls to 9-1-1 for weather updates or general road conditions can significantly delay emergency response. To report non-emergency road hazards, contact KPD Dispatch (non-emergency) at 808-241-1711.

For up-to-date information about Kauaʻi ocean conditions and safety, please speak to a county lifeguard, visit safebeachday.com [ https://safebeachday.com/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ], or call the Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4984.

To sign up for Everbridge, the County’s emergency notification service, please visit www.kauai.gov/KEMA [ https://www.kauai.gov/Government/Departments-Agencies/Emergency-Management-Agency?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ] and click “Notification Services.” You may also text “KAUAIEMA” to 888777, or call the Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.

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*Media Contact:
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