FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Department of Emergency Management
City and County of Honolulu
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Department of Emergency Management
City and County of Honolulu
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Oahu
residents can expect an increase of strong storm activity overnight and into
tomorrow
The National Weather Service has informed the Department of
Emergency Management that Oahu can expect an increase of strong storm activity overnight and into tomorrow.
Heavy rainfall and flooding, strong thunderstorm winds, hail and frequent
periods of lightning are forecast with the peak effects
occurring sometime Friday afternoon.
Although rainfall could be intense at times the bands of showers should move quickly over Oahu as the storm system tracks west of the state today thru Saturday.
Although rainfall could be intense at times the bands of showers should move quickly over Oahu as the storm system tracks west of the state today thru Saturday.
Oahu is currently under a Flash Flood Watch thru Friday
afternoon. A Flash Flood Watch means that conditions may develop quickly
that could lead to flash flooding. Residents should be aware that it does
not have to be raining heavily where they are for flash flooding to occur.
Everyone should monitor TV and radio for the latest weather information and be
prepared to take immediate action should the Flash Flood Watch be replaced with
a Flash Flood Warning.
Flash Flood Preparedness
When a flash flood WARNING is issued for your area, or the
moment you realize that a flash flood is imminent, act quickly to save
yourself. You may have only SECONDS! Go to higher ground or climb
to safety!
·
Get out of areas subject to
flooding. This includes dips, low spots, washes, etc. Avoid already flooded and
high velocity flow areas. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams.
·
If driving, be aware that the road
bed may not be intact under flood waters. Turn around and go another way. NEVER
drive through flooded roadways!
·
Be especially cautious at night when
it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
·
Do not camp or park your vehicle
along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions.
When you receive a FLASH FLOOD WARNING:
·
If advised to evacuate, do so
immediately. Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood water.
·
Continue monitoring NOAA Weather
Radio, television or radio for information.
During the flood:
·
Avoid areas subject to sudden
flooding.
·
If you come upon a flowing stream
where water is above your ankles, STOP! Turn around and go another way.
Do not attempt to drive over a flooded road. The depth of water is not always
obvious. The road bed may be washed out under the water, and you could be
stranded or trapped. Remember . . . Turn around, don’t drown!
·
Children should NEVER play around
high water, storm drains, culverts or viaducts.
·
Should you have a flood related
emergency call 9-1-1 immediately.
·
Go to www.nixle.com/dem
to sign up for email and text message alerts from the Department of Emergency
Management.
--
End --
For more information media only:
John M. Cummings III
Public Information Officer
Department of Emergency Management
City and County of Honolulu
650 South King Street
Honolulu, HI. 96813
808-723-8960 Office
808-499-7937 Cell
808-524-3439 Fax
Public Information Officer
Department of Emergency Management
City and County of Honolulu
650 South King Street
Honolulu, HI. 96813
808-723-8960 Office
808-499-7937 Cell
808-524-3439 Fax
Follow DEM!
On the World Wide Web: www.OahuDEM.org
On Facebook: www.facebook.com/OahuDEM
On Twitter: www.twitter.com/Oahu_DEM
Sign up for free alerts to your cell phone and / or email
account at www.nixle.com/dem provided by the City & County of Honolulu
BE FIRST, BE RIGHT, BE CREDIBLE
Crisis Emergency Risk Communication - CERC
