Maui Residents Asked to Prepare Now for Possible Storm Impacts

Tropical Storm Ana, Graphical Tropical Weather Outlook. Image courtesy Central Pacific Hurricane Center.

By Maui Now Staff

County officials are urging Maui County residents to prepare now for possible storm impacts from Ana.

Maui Communications Director Rod Antone released information this afternoon saying Ana is expected to impact Maui County late Friday or in the early morning hours of Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014.

The Maui Civil Defense Agency and Mayor Alan Arakawa issued a joint press release saying they would like to remind the community that they should prepare now, before the storm hits, while there is still plenty of time.

“This community did very well preparing for Iselle and we need everyone to get ready once more,” said Mayor Arakawa in a county issued press release. “People were safe at home and off the streets back in August, which is exactly where they need to be on Saturday if the storm hits. So get your seven day supply of food, fuel your vehicles, secure your homes and make sure you have an evacuation plan ready. I have confidence that the people of Maui County know what to do and how to do it, so let’s get moving.”

Maui Emergency Management Officer Anna Foust also commented saying, “Although the winds are expected early Saturday morning, other impacts may begin earlier.  Dangerous high surf will move in as early as Thursday night, and rainfall is also expected ahead of the winds. Remember that we are still a couple of days out and the track and impacts could change between now and then. Please continue to monitor the county website and local media for updated information.”

Maui Civil Defense Agency offered the following preparation tips before the storm:

• Fuel family vehicles
• Store and secure outdoor objects and loose, lightweight objects
  such as lawn furniture, garbage cans, etc. that may become airborne
• Prepare to cover all window and door openings with boards, shutters
  or other shielding materials
• Double check your emergency kit – make sure you have adequate
  water, non-perishable food, and medications on hand

The Maui Civil Defense agency is coordinating readiness activities with county, state, federal and non-government partners.

County officials say they will continue to monitor the system and will announce closures and shelter openings as needed.

Foust also recommends that the public subscribe to receive alerts and notifications directly from Civil Defense on the County website.