With the Central Pacific hurricane season looming, the Maui Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is pressing residents and guests of the island to gear up now, with an emphasis on readiness for anything the season might hurl their way. Officially spanning from tomorrow through November 30, the upcoming hurricane season has been forecasted to display near-normal activity levels. According to the National Weather Service's predictions, there could be around four to five tropical cyclones forming in the region, which includes all variations from tropical depressions to fully-fledged hurricanes.
MEMA Administrator, Amos Lonokailua-Hewett highlighted the urgency of preparation, stating, "Being prepared ahead of time is critical. By getting ready now, we strengthen our ability to care for our families, neighbors, and community. E hoʻomākaukau kākou a e mālama pono," according to a statement on MEMA's website. The agency is advocating for a "Two Weeks Ready" plan which means having at least a fortnight's supply of food, water, medications, and other necessities to ensure safety during harsh weather or unexpected utility outages.
In the face of potential evacuations, residents are also being urged to assemble go-bags. MEMA's checklist includes important documents, charging devices with backup batteries, a flashlight with extra batteries, hygiene items, prescription medications, and food plus water to last at least 72 hours. In addition to physical preparations, staying informed is paramount. Real-time emergency notifications can be subscribed to through MEMA Alerts, and the Genasys Protect app is suggested as a go-to for updates on evacuations and hazard alerts.
To support a robust communication flow during storms, MEMA recommends keeping in touch via the essentials: AM/FM radios, all-hazard sirens, local TV, and authoritative news and social media pages. Official emergency alert systems (EAS and WEA) will provide critical updates. In a move to bolster its outreach and readiness initiatives, the Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency has launched a statewide preparedness survey and is inviting every resident to weigh in at their official site. For comprehensive guidance on hurricane preparedness and to access a wealth of emergency resources, islanders can visit mauicounty.gov/MEMA or reach out through calling (808) 270-7285, or via email to [email protected].
