Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative is closely monitoring Tropical Storm Lala, which is moving toward the state and is anticipated to strengthen into a hurricane as it approaches the Big Island. Kaua‘i County is now under a Tropical Storm Watch. KIUC continues to engage with our Federal, State and County partners and agencies in preparation for this storm.

While the exact track and intensity of Lala may change, the storm is expected to bring strong winds, heavy rain, flooding, and other hazardous conditions to Kaua‘i beginning late Saturday night and lasting through Sunday.

Members should prepare now for the possibility of power outages, including outages that could last for an extended period.

PREPARE AND ACT NOW

Members are encouraged to review their home and business emergency preparedness plans and act accordingly in preparation for the potential impacts of storms and high winds.

Members can prepare for severe weather by following these tips:

·     Use surge protectors to protect your appliances and equipment.

·     Turn off and unplug all unnecessary appliances or equipment.

·     Keep a portable battery-powered radio and flashlights with extra batteries.

·     Stay away from downed lines and report to 911.

·     Have backup power sources for essential medical equipment.

·     Contact us at 808.246.4300 to update your contact information and receive alerts.

Storm preparedness tips can be found on KIUC’s website. General emergency preparedness and refuge center/emergency shelter information can be found on the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency’s website.

POWER OUTAGES

KIUC crews and contractors are prepared to respond to outages and restore power as safely and quickly as possible. Members should prepare for the possibility of prolonged outages.

Restoration work can begin only when conditions are safe for our employees and contractors. High winds, flooding, fallen trees, downed power lines, and other hazards may prevent crews from safely reaching affected areas. Once conditions improve, KIUC crews will assess the damage, make necessary repairs, and restore service as safely and efficiently as possible.

During and following the storm, please do not call KIUC solely to report that your power is out. KIUC’s Outage Management System alerts us when power is out in your area. Limiting routine outage calls will help keep phone lines available for information that can assist our response.

Please contact KIUC if you observe a downed power line, damaged or fallen pole, arcing electrical equipment, or if you witnessed what caused an outage. This information can help us identify hazards, assess damage, and restore power more safely and efficiently.

Never approach or touch a downed power line. Always assume that it is energized, keep others away, and call 911 to report an immediate danger.

STAY INFORMED

Follow local media and KIUC’s Facebook page for updated information on outages and weather advisories. The KIUC Facebook feed can also be viewed on the homepage of our website. For outages, please view our outage map.

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