KPD advises essential travel only during ongoing recovery operations

Published on September 11, 2026

LĪHUʻE – The Kauaʻi Police Department (KPD) is asking the public to limit travel to essential trips only as Hurricane Lowell recovery operations continue across the island. Officers are collaborating alongside County, State, and utility crews as part of the islandwide recovery response, including escorting essential workers and equipment to and from work sites. Police report that traffic conditions on our roadways are slowing these efforts.

On Monday, Sept. 14, there will be a single lane closure on Kaumuali’i Highway (Route 50), possible in either direction in the vicinity of Kipu Road to the Kaumakani area from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for storm clean up at multiple locations.  For the safety of workers, motorists must drive with caution and obey all traffic rules.

Reports indicate that some drivers are not pulling to the side and stopping when emergency vehicles approach with lights and sirens. Others are following directly behind police escorts, including entering into areas that remain closed to the public. Both behaviors put drivers, work crews, and officers at risk.

Non-essential traffic is also creating congestion on the same routes that recovery crews depend on. Every delay pushes back debris clearing, utility restoration, and road repairs.

KPD asks the public to do the following:

• Travel only when necessary. Postpone non-essential trips, including sightseeing and driving to view storm damage.

• Pull to the far right and come to a complete stop when an emergency vehicle approaches.

• Never follow behind a police escort or use an escort to enter a closed area.

• Obey all posted closures, barricades, and directions from officers and flaggers.

• Allow extra time and expect delays on roads that are open.

Residents who see hazards such as downed lines, blocked roadways, or unsafe conditions should report them rather than stopping to take photos or video.

For emergencies, call 911. For non-emergencies, call KPD Dispatch at 808-755-8516 or 808-652-7837.

For recovery information, resources, and updates, visit www.kauairecovers.org.

To receive emergency alerts and notifications from the County of Kauaʻi, please visit www.kauai.gov/kema and click on “Notification Services.”

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