Tropical Storm Preparedness
Most of Lāʻie is in a low-lying, coastal plain and is subject to damage from flooding and heavy rainfall from large storms. Hurricane and tropical storm season in the central Pacific Ocean is from June 1 to November 30, though storms can occur at any time of the year. Because of this, students, university ohana, and community members must prepare in advance.
Understanding Alerts
Tropical Storm Watches
Tropical Storm Watches are issued when tropical storm force winds of 39-73mph are possible within the next 48 hours.
Tropical Storm Warnings
Tropical Storm Warnings are issued when tropical storm force winds of 39-73mph are expected within the next 36 hours.
When a Tropical Storm Watch or Warning is issued, the university will provide instructions through BYUH Alerts.
Preparation
Preparation can be done at any time, not just when an advisory is issued. Recommended steps include:
- Sign up for BYUH Alerts and HNL Info notifications.
Prepare an emergency kit. Include items such as:
- Important documents (i.e. passport).
- Extra food and water.
- Charged power banks and charging cords.
- Flashlights with extra batteries.
- Know the available resources.
During a Tropical Storm
Anticipate these things to happen during a tropical storm:
Dangerous Winds
Winds ranging from 34 to 63 knots (39-73 mph) can propel debris at dangerously high speeds, posing a risk to life and property. Sheltering indoors and away from glass windows is recommended.
Power Outages
Strong winds can uproot power lines, cutting off electricity to the community. This could take days or weeks to be fixed, depending on the severity of damage elsewhere on the island. Most of the sewage in Laie is electrically pumped, so refrain from using toilets unless necessary. Read more about Power Outage Preparedness.
Storm Surge
Very large ocean waves often accompany a storm. These have been known to travel up to 800 meters inland. Those living on ground floors in low-lying areas may need to evacuate to higher floors.
Flash Flooding
Tropical Storms bring heavy rainfall, which could overwhelm local drainage fields and mix with storm surge to flood the town. Areas situated on low ground and close to drainage are most susceptible. Read more about Flooding Preparedness.
General Safety Actions
- Stay indoors and shelter in place unless instructed otherwise.
- Stay away from windows.
- Move to higher floors if storm surge worsens.
- Monitor official alerts via BYUH Alerts, radio, and local authorities.
- Stay informed of the status of shelters opening in case of evacuation.
University Emergency Communication
The university will provide updates and emergency instructions during a tropical storm via BYUH Alerts.
Shelters
- Shelters are organized by HI-EMA and the Hawaii American Red Cross.
- At the direction of the President’s Council, BYU–Hawaii may open a shelter.
- If evacuation is needed, residents should have an emergency kit prepared.
- Refer to BYUH Alerts regularly for shelter or evacuation updates.
What This Means for You
Hale (Single Student Housing) and TVA Residents
Students should shelter in place and pay attention to BYUH Alerts and announcements. Housing Operations will advise students on when to move to upper levels. Be prepared to evacuate to higher floors should a storm surge reach the campus.
Students Residing Off-Campus
Shelter in place or evacuate depending on location and official guidance. The communities closest to the ocean are at the highest risk for storm surge. Off-campus residents should coordinate with their landlords to place sandbags and reinforce windows. Students living off-campus may also have the option to evacuate to designated on-campus buildings or emergency shelters. Pay attention to BYUH Alerts and announcements for instructions.
BYU–Hawaii Faculty and Staff
Shelter inside away from windows and doors if possible, unless evacuation is advised. Community members should stay informed and follow instructions from state and local emergency agencies. Residents are advised to secure their homes by protecting windows, bringing in outdoor items, and preparing sandbags if in a low-lying area. To determine whether evacuation is needed, the City and County of Honolulu provides evacuation and risk guidance based on the location and kind of structure a home is. Residents should be prepared to evacuate if needed.
After a Tropical Storm
- Assess the damage in your home and outside.
- Be aware of hazards such as loose cables or fallen trees.
- Continue to shelter in place until advised it is safe to walk outside.
- Continue to follow BYUH Alerts for information on campus operations and safety.