City and County of Honolulu News Releases

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National Weather Service issues Flash Flood Watch for Oahu (Thurs., Dec. 9, 2010)—The National Weather Service in Honolulu has placed the island of Oahu under a Flash Flood Watch effective today through late Friday night.  A Flash Flood Watch means that conditions may develop that lead to flash flooding.  Flash flooding is very dangerous.     All residents should monitor TV and radio broadcasts during the watch period and be prepared to take immediate action should a Flash Flood Warning be issued. The Department of Emergency Management urges residents and businesses to consider the following flood safety precautions: ·       Know the meanings and effects of a Flood Advisory, Flash Flood Watch, Flash Flood Warning.  Visit the National Weather Service on-line at http://www.prh.noaa.gov/hnl/ for more information and current weather advisory status.  You may also call the National Weather Service at 973-5286 for recorded weather information, and monitor television and radio for the latest updates. ·       Learn the safest route from your home or place of business to high ground should you have to evacuate in a hurry. ·       If your area floods frequently, keep emergency materials on hand such as sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting, and lumber, which can be used to protect properties. ·       Stay away from areas along streams or near drainage canals/ditches.  These areas can become deadly during periods of heavy rainfall. ·       If your car stalls in a flooded area, abandon it as soon as possible. Floodwaters can rise rapidly and sweep a car (and its occupants) away. Many deaths have resulted from attempts to move stalled vehicles.  DO NOT attempt to drive through flooded areas in your vehicle as parts of the road may already be washed out or the water may be much deeper than it appears.  Turn around, don't drown!  ·       Consider canceling or postponing outdoor activities especially hiking in mountains and valleys.  A small stream can become a raging torrent within minutes if previous rainfall has been substantial.  Don't cross until the flash flood subsides. ·        Heavy rains cause runoff, which attracts more sharks. Avoid swimming immediately after a heavy storm, especially in murky waters. ·       If you experience a flood related emergency call 9-1-1 immediately! ·       To receive real-time email and SMS cell phone text alerts from the Department of Emergency Management sign-up with NIXLE today at www.nixle.com.  Text message charges may apply depending on your wireless carrier and plan.  --End --  Contact: John M. Cummings III Public Information Officer Department of Emergency Management (808) 723-8957  Office www.oahuDEM.org