Gov. Green Declares State Emergency as Heavy Rain, High Winds Threaten Kauai

Gov. Josh Green issued an emergency proclamation Friday, activating state resources as heavy rain and potentially damaging winds threaten Kauai and islands statewide. The proclamation is in effect through Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026, and may be extended if conditions warrant, a mobilization designed to make state assistance available should flooding, downed trees, or power outages materialize.

Forecasters with the National Weather Service warned of rainfall amounts as high as 10 inches in some areas and a High Wind Watch covering multiple islands. The NWS said: "HIGH WIND WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM SUNDAY MORNING THROUGH MONDAY AFTERNOON... WHAT...East winds 25 to 40 mph with gusts over 60 mph possible. WHERE...Portions of Kahoolawe, Kauai, Lanai, Maui, Molokai, Oahu, and the Big Island Hawaii. Areas most at risk include higher terrain, passes, and areas immediately south and west of the mountains. WHEN...From Sunday morning through Monday afternoon. IMPACTS...Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines. Power outages are possible. Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Take precautions now to protect property. Tie down loose objects or move them to a sheltered location. A High Wind Watch means that strong and potentially damaging winds in excess of 40 mph with ..."

State emergency managers and county officials are urging residents to prepare now. Hawaii Emergency Management Agency messages emphasize that the most dangerous weather is expected Sunday evening into Monday, with officials warning of possible flash floods, localized flooding, and downed tree limbs that could lead to power outages. Mayor Kimo Alameda reiterated the local warning for the Big Island: "The public should be ready for what this storm could bring. Take time before the system arrives to check your property and be prepared."

Local forecasts show impacts will vary by island and terrain. The Big Island faces its greatest chance of heavy rain along the Hamakua coast, with North Hilo, South Hilo and Puna also at risk; strong, gusty winds late Sunday and Monday could drive downslope wind impacts in Kohala, South Point and the Saddle. A high-surf warning covers north and west shores of Niihau, Kauai, Oahu and Molokai, increasing coastal hazard for north-facing beaches and shorefront properties.

Officials noted that public attention this weekend may be divided by major sporting events. "Though many people are focused on major sporting events this weekend the Super Bowl and Winter Olympics, the state will be prioritizing these preparations." Residents should secure loose outdoor items, expect difficult travel for high-profile vehicles, and prepare for possible power outages.

County resources and notifications are already being urged. Kauai contacts include 911 for life-threatening or time-critical emergencies, the Kauai Police Department dispatch non-emergency line at 808-241-1711, road status and closures at 808-241-1725, and the Kauai Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800. Sign up for local emergency alerts through the state emergency alert system and for Kauai's Wireless Emergency Notification System, WENS, via the county emergency management page.

This proclamation follows a pattern of state emergency declarations for major storms in recent years, reflecting efforts to pre-position response capability and streamline relief should damage occur. Residents should monitor National Weather Service updates, county emergency messages, and local media through Sunday and Monday. Expect evolving watches and warnings; officials may extend the proclamation if the storm produces wider or more severe damage than currently forecast.