County of Maui officials encourage residents to prepare for another tropical system

County of Maui officials are encouraging residents to prepare ahead of a tropical depression that is expected to strengthen into Tropical Storm Moke — less than a week after impacts from Tropical Storm Lala.

The current National Weather Service (NWS) forecast has this system moving west-northwest and then passing near or south of the Big Island this weekend. NWS said the depression is farther south than Lala’s track, but that does not mean Hawaiʻi is in the clear. The exact track could still shift, and impacts can extend well away from the center of the storm.

“With another tropical system developing so soon after Lala, I know our community is tired and many families are still dealing with the impacts of the last storm,” Mayor Richard Bissen said. “But this is exactly the time when we need to remain vigilant. Forecast confidence is still developing, and conditions can change quickly, but we know our islands remain vulnerable to heavy rain, flooding and other impacts, particularly with the ground still saturated from Lala. Our County teams are already preparing, coordinating with our partners and making sure we are positioned and ready to respond to whatever may come. Hurricane season is far from over, and this year is expected to bring above-normal tropical activity. We will continue to prepare, stay ready and keep our community informed every step of the way.”

The NWS says tropical-cyclone impacts to the state are possible from late Saturday through late Monday. For Maui County, potential impacts include heavy rainfall, strong winds and high surf.

“With guidance from the National Weather Service, Maui Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and other County departments are coordinating with state, private and nonprofit partners to prepare for potential impacts from this system,” MEMA Administrator Amos Lonokailua-Hewett said. “Hurricane season continues through November, and we’re urging everyone to be Two Weeks Ready: Have your go-bag and emergency supplies ready, secure your home, prepare for possible extended power outages and make sure your ʻohana has a communication plan. Taking these steps now can make a significant difference in keeping our families and community safe.”

Watches for the state could be issued as soon as Friday, according to NWS.

“Heavy rain can quickly create dangerous conditions in our streams, roads, mountains and coastal areas, so we need everyone to understand the risks where they live and know what they will do if conditions change,” Lonokailua-Hewett said. “Also, each storm brings the potential for extended power outages, so make sure you have a backup plan for potential food loss, water interruptions and loss of internet service.”

Residents are encouraged to:

• Review or update your family emergency plan.
• Stock at least 14 days of food, water, medications and essential items.
• Secure important documents and know your evacuation zone if you live in a coastal or flood-prone area.
• Prepare your home by securing outdoor items, protecting windows as needed, and planning for extended power outages.
• Sign up for MEMA Alerts and Genasys evacuation notifications at https://mauicounty.gov/MEMA.

For the latest information, visit NWS in Honolulu at https://www.weather.gov/hfo/.