The Change
A potent Kona storm system is projected to affect all Hawaiian Islands starting Tuesday, March 11th, and is expected to persist through at least Saturday, March 15th. This system carries a significant threat of heavy rainfall leading to flash flooding, accompanied by damaging southerly winds and strong to severe thunderstorms.
The immediate concern is the potential for widespread power outages due to high winds and downed trees, road closures from flooding and debris, and severe disruptions to inter-island and mainland transportation. The characteristic 'Kona winds' blowing from the south and southeast can also bring increased surf and coastal erosion, particularly on west and south-facing shores.
Who's Affected
Small Business Operators Operations are at high risk of disruption. Expect potential physical damage to properties from wind and water, leading to costly repairs. Staffing will be a significant challenge as employees may be unable to commute due to flooded roads or hazardous conditions. Power outages will cripple point-of-sale systems, refrigeration, and essential business functions. Supply chains for goods and services could be severely impacted, leading to stock shortages and delivery delays that could extend beyond the storm's immediate passage.
Real Estate Owners Properties, especially those in low-lying areas or with inadequate drainage, face a high risk of flash flooding damage. Winds can cause roof damage, break windows, and dislodge unsecured items. Landlords should prepare for potential tenant displacement and coordinate emergency repairs. Property managers must have emergency contact lists and repair crews on standby. Commercial properties may experience power outages affecting tenants.
Tourism Operators Direct impacts include mass flight cancellations from the mainland and inter-island, leading to significant rescheduling and potential financial losses from unused bookings. Hotels and vacation rentals must prioritize guest safety, potentially requiring room changes for guests in vulnerable locations or even evacuations. Tour operators will face widespread cancellations, impacting revenue. Beachfront properties and coastal attractions are at risk from high surf and storm surge.
Agriculture & Food Producers Crops, particularly those in low-lying fields or those sensitive to excessive moisture, could suffer significant damage or total loss from heavy rainfall and flooding. Livestock are at risk from exposure to severe weather and potential flooding in pastures. Power outages will affect irrigation systems, processing facilities, and refrigeration. Transportation of produce to local markets or for export will be severely delayed due to road closures and inter-island shipping disruptions.
Healthcare Providers Power outages pose a critical threat to medical equipment. Clinics and private practices should ensure backup power systems are functional and fuel is available. Staffing is a major concern, as healthcare workers may face life-threatening commutes. Telehealth services could be disrupted by internet connectivity issues. Facilities must prepare for increased demand for services related to storm-related injuries or exacerbations of chronic conditions.
Second-Order Effects
Increased demand for essential goods and limited replenishment due to transportation disruptions will likely drive up prices for groceries, fuel, and building materials in the short term. Tourism cancellations can reduce the immediate influx of discretionary spending, impacting sectors reliant on visitor expenditure. Widespread power outages can strain emergency services and create cascading failures in communication networks, further isolating affected communities and delaying business recovery.
What to Do
Small Business Operators Begin immediate implementation of severe weather preparedness plans. This includes securing loose outdoor items, backing up digital data, testing backup generators, and communicating updated operating hours and safety procedures to staff and customers. Ensure all inventory is secured, moving perishable goods to more reliable cold storage if possible. Review insurance policies for flood and wind damage coverage. Establish a communication tree for staff to check in and report safety status.
Real Estate Owners Inspect properties for potential vulnerabilities. Secure all external fixtures, trim hazardous tree branches, and clear gutters and storm drains. For properties in flood zones, advise tenants to move valuables and sensitive documents to higher ground. Ensure emergency repair contractors are on standby and have their contact information readily available. Verify that any required shutters or protective measures are in place.
Tourism Operators Communicate proactively with guests regarding flight status and potential service impacts. Update websites and social media with real-time information. Review and enact cancellation and refund policies. Ensure all properties have emergency supplies, including water, food, and first-aid kits, and that staff are trained on emergency procedures. Secure all outdoor amenities and equipment.
Agriculture & Food Producers Move livestock to higher, safer ground where possible. Secure farming equipment and any stored feed or supplies. Harvest any mature crops that are at risk of damage from excessive rain or wind. Ensure irrigation pumps and backup power are functional. Communicate with suppliers and buyers regarding potential delays in deliveries and pick-ups.
Healthcare Providers Confirm backup power systems are fully functional and test generators. Stockpile essential medical supplies and medications. Ensure emergency communication channels are operational in case of network failures. Review staffing plans and consider arrangements for essential personnel to shelter in place if safe and feasible. Remind patients to prepare their own emergency kits and medication supplies.
