4:30 p.m., April 11, County of Kaua‘i, Severe Weather Update
Published on April 11, 2026
LĪHU‘E – County of Kaua‘i officials are urging the public to continue to be vigilant due to severe weather conditions.
The National Weather Service issued a Flood Watch for Kaua‘i through 6 p.m., Monday, April 13.
Weather Forecast (NEW UPDATE)
According to the National Weather Service, showers and isolated thunderstorms will spread over the western half of the state tonight and become heavy over central portions of the state Sunday into Sunday night. Flash flooding is possible. The heaviest rain is currently anticipated over O‘ahu and Moloka‘i, and possibly Kaua‘i.
The National Weather Service issued a Flood Watch for Kaua‘i through 6 p.m., April 13.
Refuge Areas
No refuge areas are open at this time. However, refuge areas islandwide are on standby, should the need arise.
Facilities Closures
The Kapa'a Refuse Transfer Station will not be accepting green waste until further notice due to weather conditions.
The Department of Land and Natural Resources has closed the Kalalau Trail and Polihale State Park until further notice. The Hā'ena Shuttle has also been suspended until further notice.
The Department of Land and Natural Resources has closed the Wailua River to all vessels.
County services and facilities may close on little to no notice, depending on the severity of the incoming storm and its effects.
Road Closures (NEW UPDATE)
The Department of Land and Natural Resources has implemented multiple closures along Kōke‘e Contour Road due to erosion from recent heavy rains.
• Closed sections include:
• Between Haʻeleʻele Ridge Road (Trail 3) and Polihale Ridge Road (Trail 4)
• Between Polihale Ridge Road (Trail 4) and Kaʻaweiki Ridge Road (Trail 5)
• Closures went into effect Friday, April 10, at 3 p.m., until further notice.
• Unit A remains open, but users are advised to proceed with caution.
Pe'e Road in Poʻipū has been reopened for through traffic.
The public is advised that heavy ponding may persist in some areas. The Public Works Roads Division has flooded roads posted in areas with heavy ponding to alert the public.
KIUC
Standard tips to prepare for power outages from KIUC include:
- Use surge protectors to protect your appliances & equipment.
- Turn off & unplug all unnecessary appliances or equipment.
- Keep a portable battery-powered radio & flashlights with extra batteries.
- Stay away from downed lines & report to 9-1-1.
- Contact KIUC at 808-246-4300 to update your contact information & receive alerts.
Safety Advisory
Ocean Safety Bureau officials are advising no swimming or other ocean activities due to brown and murky waters islandwide. County lifeguards advise no recreational water activities.
For up-to-date information about Kaua‘i ocean conditions and safety, please speak to a county lifeguard, visit www.safebeachday.com, or call the Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4984.
The public is advised to check conditions before venturing out for hiking, river, or beach excursions. River and stream crossings, recreational trails, and other outdoor recreation areas may quickly become hazardous.
During severe weather, emergency rescues may not be possible. Do not cross swollen rivers or streams; always check with a lifeguard at any lifeguard station before entering the ocean. Know before you go.
The Hawai'i Department of Health Clean Water Branch has issued a Brown Water Advisory for the island of Kaua'i. The Department of Health advises beach users to stay our of waters when the water appears brown or murky, especially following storms or heavy rain.
Important Contacts and Resources
To stay updated, stay tuned to local media broadcast channels for the most up-to-date information. The following provides a list of important resources on emergency preparedness.
- To report non-emergency road hazards, contact KPD Dispatch (non-emergency) at 808-241-1711.
- Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency – kauai.gov/kema.
- National Weather Service – weather.gov/hfo, or automated weather line at 808-245-6001.
- Road and closure conditions – 808-241-1725.
- Do not call Kaua‘i Police 9-1-1 unless it is an emergency.
To sign up for the Wireless Emergency Notification System (WENS), the county’s emergency notification service, please visit kauai.gov/KEMA and click “WENS.” You may also call the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.
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