Public Urged to Take Final Precautions in Advance of Hurricane Lester

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County storm prep urged.

The Maui County Civil Defense Agency today announced that with the onset of impacts of Hurricane Lester expected Friday night, the public is urged to plan accordingly and to take final precautions. A Mayoral Emergency Proclamation has been signed for Maui County in conjunction with Governor Ige’s statewide Emergency Declaration.

Officials anticipate opening shelters Friday, Sept. 2, at 5 p.m., with locations to be announced mid-day on Friday. Regular MauiBus routes that include shelter locations will be run on a normal daily schedule; riders needing Para-transit may make same-day reservations.

As a precaution, County of Maui employees will be released at noon on Friday, Sept. 2, in conjunction with the early release of State employees, including DOE teachers and staff. County essential employees and those assisting with emergency management operations will continue to monitor and respond as needed. Maui Bus expects to continue its routes will operate on a regular schedule throughout the day unless road conditions are unsafe or road closures are in effect.

The following notifications are in place:

– A tree-planting ceremony in honor of Senator Daniel K. Inouye Friday morning has been postponed to a future date.
– The Department of Water Supply Cashier’s Window in the County Building will close at 11 a.m. Friday.
– September’s emergency siren testing has been canceled.
– Additional closures may be announced later as they are determined.

“The County made every preparation we could for Madeline and we remain prepared for Hurricane Lester,” said Managing Director Keith Regan. “I ask that all of our residents and visitors prepare themselves as the storm could actually hit us this time. Be prepared, stay alert and stay informed. Now is not the time for complacency.”

Maui County Emergency Management Office Anna Foust noted that “the probability that Maui County will experience tropical storm-force winds is significantly higher with Hurricane Lester than it was with Madeline. We are asking everyone to take this storm seriously, and to stay off the roads after about 9 p.m. Friday when winds may begin picking up. Now is the time to finish getting your emergency supplies together, and be prepared to shelter in-place for up to 24 hours as Lester passes through.”

The public is urged to call Civil Defense with any questions or concerns, at (808) 270-7285.