News briefing · Published
Hurricane Lowell and Hawaii: island-ready supplies
Why do Hawaii households need extra water and food before a hurricane like Lowell?
Bloomberg, via Insurance Journal, reports Hurricane Lowell had top winds of 105 mph and passed west of Kauai on September 8, 2026, with up to 24 inches of rain possible on Kauai. Five hurricanes or tropical storms affected Hawaii in three months, so households should keep water, food and fuel on hand for at least two weeks.
Bloomberg, via Insurance Journal, reports Hurricane Lowell had top winds of 105 mph and passed west of Kauai on September 8, 2026.
What happened
The National Hurricane Center warned of significant flash flooding and mudslides across Kauai County and the Big Island. Up to 24 inches of rain was possible on Kauai. Enki Research estimated damage could reach $600 million, or $1 billion if flooding is severe. Five hurricanes or tropical storms have affected Hawaii in the past three months, an unusually high number.
What it means for your home
Warnings of flash flooding and mudslides mean roads may be blocked for a time. Extra water and food on hand let a household stay put until routes are checked.
What to do this week
- Count how much drinking water your household has, and add more.
- Check your food supply and add shelf-stable items the family already eats.
- Top up fuel for the car and any generator, stored safely outdoors.
- Keep a battery or crank radio for alerts in case power or phone service fails.
- Store important papers and medicines in a waterproof container.
The water storage guide explains how to work out how much to keep.
Sources
This briefing is general information, not medical, legal or electrical advice. In an emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number.