Preparing for Tropical Storms on Oahu HI

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

Tropical Storm on Oahu

Preparing for Tropical Storms on Oahu HI:

On Oahu, a good practice is to be prepared for Tropical Storms and heavy rains in Hawaii. We do not know what is in store for the next several months, or next year for that matter. Below are some best practices for Preparing for a Tropical Weather in Hawaii. Please, start thinking about and doing these things if you haven’t already. They can make a difference in both the safety of you and your family, and the damage to your home.

1. Get Hurricane AND Flood Insurance Coverage for Your Home Before a storm is on its Way

Many people in Hawaii have hurricane insurance for their homes. It is strongly recommended. But did you know that hurricane insurance is only WIND insurance. Whether or not you are in a flood zone requiring mandatory flood insurance, it is also a good idea to also have FLOOD insurance. This can help protect you from the water damage caused by a hurricane. Water damage can be immense in a hurricane, but also in other events such a tropical storms and tsunamis. BOTH hurricane and flood insurance are important items to consider when preparing for a hurricane in Hawaii. Keep your insurance contact in a place where you can easily find it.

2. Declutter Your Yard & Garage, Trim Your Trees

During a recent storm threat, we and many of our friends and neighbors worked in our yards for a day or more preparing for the storm. It is recommended to remove lawn furniture, potted plants, decor, patio umbrellas, etc. that may become projectiles which break and fly through your windows. These can harm both people and property. You are advised to bring these items inside where they won’t cause harm. But do you have room for all these items? Consider getting rid of unused items and old junk that may be in your yard before hurricane season or now, if you haven’t already. At the same time, declutter your shed, garage, or carport, so that you have room to put all these items when preparing for a storm in Hawaii. Apparently, many people had this idea, but too late, as the lines at the dumps on Oahu were reportedly very long, the day after Hurricane Lane’s demise.

3. Figure Out a Water Storage Plan When Preparing for a Storm in Hawaii

Don’t run out and buy cases of bottled water (unless that is your only alternative). It is not only expensive, but the bottles are harmful to the environment. Plan ahead and use water from the tap. Hawaii water is safe to drink from the tap and is important in preparing for a storm in Hawaii. In this recent storm, I heard several creative ideas on how to store tap water. A few of our neighbors purchased a large (100 gallon) bladder that can be filled from the tap and stored in the bathtub. It comes complete with a pump. We don’t have a bathtub to fill in our home, but purchased some food-safe garbage cans which held 32 gallons each and were filled from the tap. One fit perfectly in our shower. Stored water is necessary for both drinking and cooking, and for hygiene, bathing, and flushing toilets, if the water supply is compromised. Make sure you also have liquid bleach available and add a drop or two to your water, as necessary.

4. Pack a Storm/Emergency “Go Bag”

In the event you must evacuate in preparing for a Storm in Hawaii, you should have a “Go Bag” packed and ready. Hawaii Emergency Management Agency has prepared a suggested checklist for this, which includes items such as flashlights, batteries, food, water, first aid supplies, important documents, hygiene supplies, etc. You should find the lightest weight (but sturdy) bag possible, and also, consider rolling storage for these items, since you will need to carry them, and food and water can be heavy. A waterproof bag would not be a bad idea either.

5. Prepare for high rising water.

In a Tropical Storm the water will rise. Depending on how close you are to the ocean, streams, or mountains the water must go somewhere. Be prepared to allow the water to travel towards the ocean and unfortunate your home may be in the way. As the storm increases watch for water build up areas around your home and on the roof, freeing up anything that stops the water from flowing. Sandbags can be heavy and hard to move around. There are several other alternatives to use in a pinch, https://worstroom.com/sandbag-alternatives/ most of these eco friendly bags fill with water and will help guide the water to where you want it to go VS creating a dam.