Full Notification

HNL Alert from the Oahu Department of Emergency Management

Issued: 06:06 PM 03-10-2026  

Severe Weather Update 2: March 2026 Kona Low Storm

Details 

As impacts begin over Oahu tonight (Tuesday), expect heavy rain and gusty winds. The passing Kona Low Storm will bring severe weather to Oahu and the rest of the Hawaiian Islands through the weekend.

Heavy rain is expected tonight into tomorrow and may be followed by a brief period of less intense rainfall before conditions deteriorate again. Beginning Thursday evening, the weather is expected to worsen and remain dangerous into the weekend and include a higher threat of damaging winds and thunderstorms.

Take action to prepare for flooding, wind damage, and power outages if you have not done so already.

• A Flood Watch is in effect tonight through Saturday.
• A Special Weather Statement has been issued for the state highlighting the threat of flooding and concern about severe thunderstorms.

The City and County of Honolulu continues preparation for the storm. Department of Facilities Maintenance crews opened additional stream mouths across the island to help prevent flooding. City agencies and partners have been conducting outreach to vulnerable populations to encourage them to seek shelter ahead of the storm and are planning for shelter operations for impacted individuals starting later this week as conditions require.

City park facilities will close beginning on Wednesday, March 11. Additionally, permitted activities and park classes have been cancelled and overnight camping is suspended. Royal Hawaiian Band performances have also been cancelled as a precaution. Additional closures and cancellations are likely as storm impacts being. Monitor HNL Alert and official social media for updates.

Residents are reminded to take steps to stay safe during severe weather:

• Stay informed: Monitor official sources for updates and instructions, including HNL Alert and trusted local media (TV/radio). Avoid unverified information.
• Follow instructions from emergency officials: Carefully follow directions from emergency responders and public safety officials. These instructions are issued to protect lives.
• Call 911 for emergencies only: Use 911 only for life-threatening emergencies. Do not call 911 for general information or updates.
• Document your belongings: Take photos or videos of your home and important belongings ahead of time for insurance or recovery purposes.
• Review your home or renter’s insurance: Different disasters require different coverage. Check your policies and understand your coverage before a disaster occurs.
• Check on others: If it is safe to do so, check on neighbors, especially kūpuna, individuals with disabilities, and others who may need assistance in preparing for the storm or who may be impacted.

Stay Informed

Additional updates will be issued as the situation develops or if there are significant changes to the weather forecast. Follow DEM on social media, encourage others to sign up for HNL Alert, and monitor local TV/radio. Help keep lines clear for first responders. Call 911 for emergencies only. Do not call 911 for general information updates.

Learn more about emergency preparedness and how to protect your family at honolulu.gov/dem.

Mahalo and stay safe!