Flooding in Hawaii


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What should you do if a flood advisory is issued during your Hawaii vacation?

While being bummed out would be a natural answer to that question, it’s much more important that you take action right away. There are three types of flood advisories to look out for: Flash Flood Watch (flooding is possible), Flood Warning (flooding is occurring or will occur soon) and a Flash Flood Warning (flooding is occurring).

In either scenario, here are a few tips to follow (according to the Hawaii County website):

  • Move to higher ground

    and tune into a local radio or television station.

  • Avoid hiking or being near mountainous areas.

    Landslides or mudslides may occur.

  • Stay out of the ocean.

    Dangerous moving debris may get caught up in the flow of water.

  • Do not walk or swim through a flooded area

    . It only takes 6 inches of moving water to sweep you off your feet.

  • Stay away from downed power lines

    and other electrical wires or fallen trees.

  • Do not drive through flooded areas.

    It only takes 1 foot of water to carry a vehicle.

  • Turn Around, Don’t Drown.

    Almost half of all flash flood fatalities occur in vehicles. If you approach a flooded roadway, turn around. If water gets into your car, abandon the vehicle and get to higher ground.

Posted by: Bruce Fisher