Kauai Hurricane and Tropical Storm Prep Guide

Here on Kauai, we’re in the midst of hurricane season. While forecasts may predict varying levels of activity, our history has taught us a powerful lesson: it only takes one storm to change everything. A quiet season forecast should never lead to a false sense of security.

This is especially true as we remember the impact of Hurricane Iniki, which made landfall on September 11, 1992. This storm reshaped our island and underscored the critical importance of being prepared. With hurricane season officially running from June 1st to November 30th, now is the perfect time to ensure your emergency plan is in place.

First Step: Review Your Insurance Before the Storm

Your first step in hurricane preparedness isn’t about batteries; it’s about securing your financial safety net. Having the right insurance coverage is crucial for your long-term recovery.

Critical Questions to Ask Your Insurance Agent

• Are my homeowners or renters insurance policies current and paid up?
• Do I have separate hurricane and flood insurance policies?
• Is my coverage adequate to rebuild my home in today’s market on Kauai?

Construction and material costs are constantly rising. The coverage that was sufficient a few years ago might leave you dangerously underinsured today. Important: Contact your agent immediately to discuss current rebuilding costs. Many insurance carriers will not make any changes to policies once a named storm is within a certain range.

The Ultimate Kauai Hurricane Preparedness Checklist

Beyond insurance, don’t forget your personal and home safety kit. Your goal is to have enough supplies to be self-sufficient for a minimum of seven days.

Before the Storm: Protecting Your Property

1. Secure the Exterior
   • Bring in loose items: Move all outdoor furniture, grills, potted plants, and garbage cans.
   • Trim trees: Cut dead or overgrown tree limbs that could fall on your house or power lines.
   • Protect windows: Install storm shutters or board up windows with 5/8-inch exterior-grade plywood.
   • Clean gutters and drains: Clear debris to prevent flooding around your home.
   • Anchor heavy objects: Tie down anything you can’t bring inside, like propane tanks, with ropes or cables.
   • Move vehicles: Park cars in your garage or in a clear area away from trees and power lines.
2. Prepare the Interior
   • Fill the bathtub: Use this water for flushing toilets and basic cleaning if your water supply is cut off.
   • Elevate valuables: Move electronics and important documents to a higher floor or elevated area to protect against flooding.
   • Unplug electronics: Protect non-essential appliances from power surges.
   • Set appliances: Turn your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting to keep food fresh longer.
   • Protect important documents: Place insurance policies, medical records, and ID in a waterproof container.
3. Utility & Power Preparedness
   • Know how to turn off utilities: Learn where your main switches are for gas, electricity, and water.
   • Charge devices: Fully charge all cell phones, laptops, and portable power banks.

The Essential 7-Day Survival Kit

Power outages and service disruptions are a certainty. A well-stocked kit will keep your family safe, connected, and comfortable.

1. Water & Non-Perishable Food

• Water: One gallon per person, per day.
• Non-Perishable Foods: Ready-to-eat canned goods (soups, vegetables, fruits, meats), high-energy foods (protein bars, nuts, jerky), and boxed juices.

2. Essential Supplies: Tools, Power & Communication

• Lighting: High-quality flashlights and headlamps with plenty of batteries.
• Information: A battery-powered or hand-crank emergency radio for official broadcasts.
• Power: Portable power banks and chargers for phones.
• Toolkit: Pliers, hammer, screwdrivers, duct tape, and a manual can opener.
• Generator: If you have one, test it now to ensure it runs properly. Always operate generators outdoors in a well-ventilated area.

3. First-Aid & Sanitation

• First-Aid Kit: Stocked with bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, and medical tape.
• Medications: A seven-day supply of all prescription medications, plus pain relievers.
• Hygiene: Hand sanitizer, soap, and wet wipes.

Crucial Final Step: Fill Up Your Gas Tank

Do not wait for a hurricane watch or warning. Gas stations are among the first businesses to be overwhelmed and run out of fuel. Keep your car’s gas tank at least half-full throughout the season. Fill it completely if a storm is forecast.

Post-Storm Preparation

• Have Protective Gear: Keep work gloves and sturdy shoes easily accessible for walking through debris.
• Document Your Property: Take photos and videos of your home and possessions before the storm. This is invaluable for insurance claims.

Taking these steps now provides peace of mind and gives you control in an uncontrollable situation. Remember, you can repair a home, but you can’t replace a life. Know where you would ride out a storm. If you live in a low-lying area or near the coast, consider evacuating to a safer location.

And don’t forget to stock up on toilet paper. We laugh about this all the time, but the minute we have a potential for a storm, all the stores run out of toilet paper, so stock up ahead of time.