Kaua‘i Mountain Areas Under Wind Advisory with 40-50 mph Gusts

The National Weather Service Honolulu office issued a wind advisory that remained in effect until 6 p.m. HST on Jan. 14, 2026, for mountain and higher-elevation areas of Kaua‘i, including sections of the island’s north and east. Forecast south winds were expected at 15-25 mph with gusts up to 40-50 mph, strong enough to damage property and complicate travel for many residents.

Strong gusts at those speeds can tear off shingles, uproot branches, and blow away unsecured objects. The advisory warned that high-profile vehicles would face difficult driving conditions on exposed roads and ridgelines, and it urged households to prepare for potential power outages. Local mauka communities were particularly vulnerable because exposure increases with elevation and along windward slopes.

Officials advised common-sense precautions for those in affected areas: secure tents and awnings, tie down or store patio furniture and loose items, and avoid parking beneath large trees. Residents were reminded to watch for falling branches and to be ready to report downed lines or debris that could block roads. Drivers were encouraged to use extra caution, reduce speeds, and be alert for sudden gusts, especially on bridges and open stretches of roadway.

The advisory highlighted practical public-safety implications for county services and civic operations. Schools, public works, and emergency responders often face shorter reaction windows during wind events because damage and outages can occur quickly in elevated terrain. For property owners and renters, routine maintenance such as checking roof attachments and trimming weakened branches can reduce downstream costs and hazards during future storms.

Community institutions and neighborhood networks play a role in resilience. Informal checks on elderly or mobility-impaired neighbors and cooperative efforts to secure community spaces help limit avoidable emergencies. For businesses that use temporary canopies or outdoor displays, taking action before gusts arrive prevents loss and reduces debris cleanup for county crews.

As the immediate advisory period ended, the practical guidance remains relevant: secure loose items, prepare for intermittent power, and plan travel with potential wind impacts in mind. Residents should continue to monitor forecast updates and local advisories for any new guidance, and treat high-elevation roads and exposed stretches with caution until conditions settle.