Hurricane Darby is expected to make landfall in Hawaii on Monday, July 18, according to the National Hurricane Center. The storm is currently a Category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 140 mph.
Darby is forecast to weaken slightly before landfall, but it is still expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous surf to the islands. The storm is currently moving west-northwest at 15 mph.
The National Weather Service has issued a hurricane warning for the Big Island, Maui County, and Oahu. A tropical storm warning is in effect for Kauai County.
Residents in the hurricane warning area are urged to take precautions, including securing loose objects, stocking up on supplies, and evacuating if necessary.
The following are some tips for staying safe during a hurricane:
- Stay informed about the storm’s track and intensity.
- Secure loose objects outside your home.
- Bring in outdoor furniture and decorations.
- Stock up on food, water, and other supplies.
- If you live in a flood-prone area, move to higher ground.
- Listen to local officials for instructions.
Hurricane Darby is the first hurricane to make landfall in Hawaii since Hurricane Lane in 2018. Lane caused widespread damage on the Big Island, Maui, and Oahu.
Residents in Hawaii are urged to stay safe and follow the instructions of local officials.
Here are some best practices and safety measurements for people residing in areas affected by hurricanes:
- Stay informed. Monitor local news and weather reports for updates on the hurricane’s track and intensity.
- Secure your home. Bring in outdoor furniture and decorations, and secure loose objects that could be blown away by the wind. Board up windows and doors if necessary.
- Stock up on supplies. This includes food, water, batteries, first-aid supplies, and other essentials.
- Evacuate if necessary. If you live in a flood-prone area or an area that is likely to be hit by high winds, you may need to evacuate. Follow the instructions of local officials.
- If you stay home, stay safe. Stay indoors and away from windows. If you must go outside, be sure to wear protective clothing.
- After the storm, be careful. Watch out for downed power lines and other hazards. Stay away from floodwaters.
Here are some additional safety tips that are specific to hurricanes:
- If you have a generator, use it safely. Generators should be used outdoors and away from windows. Never use a generator indoors, even if it is in a well-ventilated area.
- Be careful with food and water. If the power is out, food and water may spoil. Be sure to have a plan for storing and cooking food safely.
- Check on your neighbors. Especially check on the older people, the people who have disability, and those with young children.
By following these safety tips, you can help to protect yourself and your family during a hurricane.
Here are some additional resources that may be helpful:
- National Hurricane Center: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
- Federal Emergency Management Agency: https://www.fema.gov/
- Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org/
I hope this helps!