County of Maui officials are encouraging residents and visitors to prepare for severe weather, with the National Weather Service (NWS) forecasting that a tropical depression will strengthen into Tropical Storm Nolo, then a hurricane, as it moves toward the state. A flood watch, which begins at noon today, remains in effect through Saturday for Maui County.

NWS is forecasting 8 to 15 inches of rain for East Maui and a significant flash-flood risk Thursday through Saturday. Wind and surf impacts are also expected to increase later in the week, according to NWS.

“We are closely monitoring this latest tropical system, and our emergency management teams are preparing for the possibility of impacts to Maui County,” said Mayor Richard Bissen. “While it is still too early to know exactly what conditions we may see, now is the time for residents and visitors to take simple steps to be prepared. Please monitor official weather updates, make sure you have enough food, water and medications for several days, secure loose items around your property, and know where you would go if you are asked to evacuate. Being prepared before a storm approaches helps keep our community safer and allows our first responders to focus on those who need help most.”

To prepare for possible effects, Maui Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and other County departments are coordinating with state, private and nonprofit partners.

“Heavy rainfall and flash flooding are our main concerns at this time – but we need everyone to understand the importance to be prepared and stay updated,” MEMA Administrator Amos Lonokailua-Hewett said. “A storm brings the possibility of extended power outages, so make sure you have a backup plan for possible 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 the National Weather Service in Honolulu at https://www.weather.gov/hfo/.