Full Notification

HNL Alert from the Oahu Department of Emergency Management

Issued: 05:27 PM 08-14-2026  

Tropical Storm Lala Update #1 

Tropical Storm Warning in Effect for Oahu

The National Weather Service has issued a Tropical Storm Warning to include Oahu. A Tropical Storm Warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected within the next 36 hours.

As Tropical Storm Lala approaches the Hawaiian Islands, strong winds, heavy rain, and dangerous high surf are expected across the state. Residents and visitors on Oahu should prepare for high winds and heavy rain beginning on Saturday evening that could result in prolonged power outages and other impacts. Now is the time to finish preparations for your home and family.

Eight hurricane refuge areas to open Saturday
Eight hurricane refuge areas will open at 8 a.m. Saturday, August 15, at the following locations:
• Blanche Pope Elementary School
• Castle High School
• Kahuku Elementary School
• Kapolei High School
• Mililani High School
• Moanalua High School
• Nānākuli Elementary
• Roosevelt High School

The refuge areas will remain open as conditions warrant. For the most current list of hurricane refuge areas and updates, residents should visit the City’s hurricane refuge area information page at https://p.veoci.com/hnlshelter.

Hurricane refuge areas provide temporary protection from severe weather for residents and visitors who need a safe place to go. Individuals planning to use a refuge area should bring their own food, water, medications, and other essential items whenever possible.

All locations are pet-friendly. Pets must be leashed or secured in a carrier. Owners are responsible for their pets and should bring food, water, and other necessary pet supplies.

TheBus evacuation service: During an emergency, TheBus may provide evacuation service from affected areas where conditions allow. Buses providing evacuation service will be clearly marked with “Evacuation” signage, and no fare will be required. Individuals needing transportation should flag down the driver to request evacuation assistance. Animals are permitted onboard as long as they can be safely secured or seated and do not interfere with the safety or comfort of other passengers or the driver.

H.O.N.U. residents to relocate Saturday
The City will temporarily relocate the 63 residents currently staying at its Homeless Outreach and Navigation for the Unsheltered (H.O.N.U.) program to the Kapolei High School gymnasium Saturday morning to provide safe indoor refuge during the severe weather. Once residents have been relocated, tents and equipment at the H.O.N.U. site will be taken down and secured until conditions improve.

Non-emergency call center
The City and County of Honolulu has activated a non-emergency call center for residents and visitors seeking information related to Tropical Storm Lala.

Please call (808) 723-8960 to request or share information. The Department of Customer Services will staff an around-the-clock call center for the duration of the event, starting at 7 a.m. Saturday.
The call center can provide information on current storm conditions, City services and operations, hurricane refuge areas, and other storm-related resources. For emergencies or immediate threats to life or safety, call 911.

Residents urged to prepare before conditions deteriorate
Residents and visitors should use Friday and early Saturday to complete any remaining preparations before conditions deteriorate.

Secure loose outdoor items, charge phones and backup batteries, make sure medications and emergency supplies are readily available, and avoid unnecessary travel once heavy rain and strong winds begin.

People living near streams, in flood-prone areas or along the coastline should closely monitor conditions and be prepared to move to a safer location. Never drive or walk through floodwaters or attempt to cross rapidly rising streams.

Residents should also stay away from shorelines as surf and ocean conditions become increasingly dangerous.

Sign up for HNL Alert emergency notifications by visiting hnlalert.gov or texting HNLALERT to 888777.

The City will continue providing updates throughout the weekend as conditions warrant.