![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/NOAA-satellite-animation-from-Thursday-afternoon-and-evening-March-11.gif\")
<\/a>Satellite Animation Courtesy: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration<\/p>\nIsolated storm impacts are forecast through today (March 12), with the most severe impacts expected Friday through Sunday (March 13-15). Strong, locally damaging winds that can down trees and powerlines as well as heavy rainfall that can cause flooding are possible.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe county is working hard to get ready for this powerful storm and keep residents safe,\u201d said Hawai\u02bbi County Mayor Kimo Alameda in a release urging preparation. \u201cA storm like this can impact the entire island, so we ask everyone to prepare for what this weather system can bring.\u201d<\/p>\n
National Weather Service issued a flood watch in effect through Saturday afternoon (March 14) for Hawai\u02bbi Island as conditions are expected to become favorable.<\/p>\n
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ADARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW AD<\/p>\n
The storm could even produce brief and weak tornadoes in addition to isolated severe thunderstorms.<\/p>\n
\u201cSome of the models we\u2019ve seen show parts of the island could receive more than 10 inches of rain,\u201d said Hawai\u02bbi County Civil Defense Administrator Talmadge Magno in the release. \u201cWhile some areas can handle these amounts, others will have significant flooding impacts.\u201d<\/p>\n
Magno said Civil Defense will share forecast updates as it receives more information as well as provide direction for actions the public needs to take.<\/p>\n
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW AD<\/p>\n
\u201cIf you haven\u2019t already done so, now is a great time to sign up for\u202femergency alerts at the Hawai\u2018i County Civil Defense website<\/a>\u202fto receive updates on your cellphone,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n Preparing your property<\/p>\n Check around your home and trim low-hanging branches that could be downed by strong winds and cause damage.<\/p>\n Secure l\u0101nai furniture and other objects that could become airborne in strong, gusty winds.<\/p>\n Check drainage areas, gutters and drains to clear any debris that could block water from flowing.<\/p>\n Consider placing sandbags to protect foundations, doorways and other vulnerable areas if your property is prone to flooding. Consider moving items to a higher level if they might be damaged by flooding.<\/p>\n Check emergency supplies, including food, water and necessary medications for people in your household and pets.<\/p>\n Be prepared for power outages. Battery-powered light sources are safer than candles or gas lanterns and less likely to start an accidental fire. Make sure batteries are charged and you have a backup plan if you rely on an electric medical device.<\/p>\n Check and refuel electrical generators and refresh your knowledge about how to safely operate them if needed. Always place a generator in a well-ventilated area where exhaust can\u2019t blow back into areas occupied by people or pets.<\/p>\n General safety information<\/p>\n Consider changing or delaying plans for travel or outdoor activities during inclement weather, especially routes with low-lying areas prone to flooding.<\/p>\n Know the areas prone to flooding, particularly those near your home, and use extra caution around them. Heavy rain uphill from your location can cause flooding, even if it\u2019s not raining where you are.<\/p>\n Never try to cross moving water, on foot or in a vehicle: Turn around, don\u2019t drown.<\/p>\n Monitor local forecasts from reliable sources for the latest information about the storm and its potential hazards. Have a battery- or crank-powered radio to receive information during a power outage. (Don\u2019t forget the car radio.)<\/p>\n The safest place to be is indoors if lightning threatens.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re in a vehicle, stay in the vehicle, but pull off the road if rain is dangerously heavy and it is safe to pull over.<\/p>\n Have a \u201cgo bag\u201d ready in case you must evacuate, especially if your home is in an area prone to flooding. It should include food, water, necessary medication, important documents and other necessities for the members of your household \u2014 including pets \u2014 if you need to leave in a hurry.<\/p>\n Check in with neighbors, especially those who might have mobility issues, to make sure they have a safe way to evacuate if flooding strikes.<\/p>\n Stay informed<\/p>\n Hawai\u02bbi County will provide updates as conditions evolve. Residents can receive emergency notifications by signing up for Hawai\u02bbi County Civil Defense alerts<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/a>Satellite image from Thursday evening, March 11, 2026, looking at portions of the North, Central and East Pacific Oceans. (Image Courtesy: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration)<\/p>\n<\/a>Screenshot of Hawai\u02bbi County Hazard Impact Map captured shortly before 9:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 11, 2026.<\/p>\n