10 Things You Need to Know to Prepare For Tropical Storm Kilo

Tropical Storm Kilo may turn into a hurricane over the weekend.

Photo: Courtesy of NOAA 

In case you need a reminder that hurricane season is not half way over, Hawai‘i is preparing for Tropical Storm Kilo, which is forecast to strengthen into hurricane status over the weekend.

Gov. David Ige signed an emergency proclamation to set aside money for disaster relief in case the worst happens.

Last year in preparation for Tropical Storm Julio and Hurricane Iselle, locals dashed to Costco, Walmart and Safeway to stock up on goods. They cleared out the shelves of bottled water only to return the items the next day.

Is Tropical Storm Kilo a cause for concern?

“We strongly encourage the public to take advantage of the weekend to prepare their homes and families this aggressively active hurricane season continues,” says Doug Mayne, director of the Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency, in a statement.

Here’s what the state recommends to prepare:

1. Talk with family members about what you plan to do if a hurricane or tropical storm impacts the state. Make an action plan that includes details such as whether or not your family plans to evacuate.

2. Download the Ready Hawai‘i app from the iTunes or Google Play! store. This app can aid in your emergency planning and will list shelters if they are opened for evacuation.

3. Download our preparedness brochure for detailed recommendations and other resources.

4. Follow the Department of Education online for the latest information on possible school closures. Make sure you know the closure notification procedure if your children attend a private or charter school.

5. High winds may affect your travel plans. Check with your airline prior to any planned flights next week.

6. Identify small outdoor items that could be picked up by high winds. Make a plan to bring these items indoors if a hurricane/tropical storm watch or warning is issued.

7. Prepare your pets by checking or purchasing a carrier and other preparedness items. A pet carrier is necessary for your pet’s safety if you plan to evacuate to a pet-friendly shelter. Don’t forget seven days of food and water for your furry family members.

8. Set aside an emergency supply of any needed medication and keep a copy of your prescriptions in case you run out of medication after a disaster.

9. Visitors should download and read the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority’s Travel Safety Brochure. travelsmarthawaii.com

10. Read the Hawaii Boater’s Hurricane and Tsunami Safety Manual for recommended precautions to protect your boat prior to a storm. seagrant.soest.hawaii.edu