HONOLULU — The public is advised to use extreme caution and prepare for the onset of heavy weather expected to generate severe sea conditions, storm surge and high surf throughout the main Hawaiian Islands prior to the arrival of Tropical Storm/Hurricane Hilda.
“While Tropical Storm Guillermo had little impact on Hawaii we remain vigilant as hurricanes are unpredictable and can intensify quickly or change course,” said Lt. j.g. Chris Sena, command duty officer, Coast Guard 14th District command center. “Err on the side of caution, no one should underestimate the potential for dangerous storm conditions. Hilda is expected to pass the Hawaiian Islands by mid to late week and we will continue to monitor it into the far Western Pacific.”
Visitors to Hawaii should heed all warnings from lifeguards and public health and safety officials. Although weather conditions may be good, rip tides and high surf may impact beaches far in advance of the actual storm. Even the best swimmers can fall victim to the strong waves and currents caused by storms. Swimmers are urged to stay clear of beaches and shorelines until local officials say the water is safe. Local waters can also become contaminated due to runoff for several days following a storm.
Mariners and beachgoers should monitor the progress and strength of the storms through the internet, local television, newspapers and radio stations. Boaters can monitor the progress of the storms on VHF channel 16. Small craft advisories and warnings are also broadcast on VHF channel 16.
The Coast Guard is working closely with local and state first responder agencies. Once the storm begins to impact the islands, emergency responders may not be able to immediately assist those in danger. The public is urged to heed all evacuation orders. Mariners should seek safe harbor and shelter.
Mariners should secure their boats and boating equipment. This is especially relevant on the Big Island,as the center of Hurricane Hilda is currently forecasted to pass just south of the island. Owners of large boats are urged to move their vessels to protected marinas where they will be less likely to break free of their moorings or to be otherwise damaged. It may be advisable for smaller boats to be pulled from the water and stored in a place that is not prone to flooding and is protected. Regardless of location, all loose items aboard vessels should be secured or removed.
Media interested in conducting interviews with the Coast Guard regarding preparations for the impending storm should contact the Coast Guard 14th District public affairs office at 808-525-3230.
A PDF version of the Hawai'i Boater's Hurricane and Tsunami Safety Manual can be found at the following link: http://seagrant.soest.hawaii.edu/sites/seagrant.soest.hawaii.edu/files/p....
For more information on hurricane preparedness, visit the National Hurricane Center's Web page at http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/.