The Change
The American Red Cross Pacific Islands Region, in collaboration with state and local emergency managers, is escalating preparedness measures for an impending storm system. Forecasts indicate potential for high winds and major flooding impacting all Hawaiian Islands. While specific storm intensity and landfall remain subject to revision, the proactive stance of the Red Cross and emergency services signals a heightened level of risk that requires immediate business attention.
Who's Affected
Small Business Operators Businesses relying on physical locations, such as restaurants, retail shops, and service providers, face an immediate risk of operational disruption. High winds and flooding can lead to power outages, impassable roads, and direct property damage. Supply chain interruptions are also a significant concern, potentially impacting inventory and delivery schedules. Temporary closures may be unavoidable, leading to lost revenue and potential staffing challenges during and immediately after the event.
Real Estate Owners Property owners, landlords, and property managers should anticipate potential damage to buildings and infrastructure. High winds can cause roof damage, window breakage, and structural stress. Flooding can lead to water damage, mold growth, and compromised foundations. Property managers must be prepared for increased call volumes regarding repairs and potential tenant displacement. Insurance policies should be reviewed for coverage adequacy, and deductibles should be factored into potential costs.
Tourism Operators Hotels, tour companies, and vacation rental businesses are particularly vulnerable to weather-related cancellations and reduced bookings. Travelers may alter plans due to travel advisories or direct storm impact. For those still on the islands, operators may face challenges in providing services, securing transportation, or ensuring guest safety. Post-storm recovery in visitor numbers could also be impacted by infrastructure damage or ongoing advisories.
Agriculture & Food Producers Farmers, ranchers, and food producers face direct threats to crops, livestock, and facilities. High winds can cause significant damage to crops and farm structures. Flooding can drown crops, contaminate fields, and damage irrigation systems. Access to farms may be blocked by debris or flooded roads, impacting harvesting, delivery, and the ability to tend to livestock. This could lead to immediate losses and longer-term impacts on production and supply to local markets.
Healthcare Providers Clinics, private practices, and medical facilities need to ensure operational continuity and patient safety. Power outages can disrupt essential services. Access to facilities may be challenging for both staff and patients. Emergency rooms and urgent care centers could see an influx of storm-related injuries or illnesses. Telehealth providers should ensure robust backup power and internet connectivity to maintain service delivery where possible.
Second-Order Effects
- Short-term tourism downturn → Reduced demand for local goods and services → Lower sales volumes for small businesses.
- Property damage and infrastructure strain → Increased demand for construction and repair services → Potential labor shortages and higher material costs for ongoing development projects.
- Agricultural losses → Reduced local food supply → Potential increase in food prices for consumers and businesses.
- Disruption to transportation networks → Delays in goods delivery and potential scarcity of certain imported items → Upward pressure on retail and restaurant prices not directly related to storm damage.
What to Do
Immediate Action Recommended for All Affected Roles:
- Review and Execute Storm Preparedness Plans: Activate existing emergency protocols. This includes securing property, backing up data, confirming communication channels with staff and suppliers, and preparing for potential power outages.
- Monitor Official Advisories: Stay updated via official channels like the National Weather Service, Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, and local county emergency management offices. Weather forecasts can change rapidly.
- Communicate with Stakeholders: Inform staff about expected disruptions and safety protocols. Notify customers or clients about potential service interruptions or changes.
- Assess Inventory and Supplies: For retail and food service businesses, ensure essential supplies are secured and consider potential inventory losses. For healthcare providers, verify availability of critical medical supplies.
Specific Actions:
- Small Business Operators: Secure outdoor furniture, merchandise, and equipment. Ensure backup power sources are operational. Confirm emergency contact information for employees. If applicable, communicate temporary closure plans and expected reopening timelines to customers.
- Real Estate Owners: Inspect properties for potential vulnerabilities (e.g., loose roofing, blocked drainage). Ensure emergency contact information for tenants is up-to-date. Secure any common area amenities that could become hazards.
- Tourism Operators: Review cancellation policies and proactively communicate with arriving and departing guests. Ensure staff are briefed on emergency procedures. Prepare for potential temporary closures or alternated service offerings.
- Agriculture & Food Producers: Secure livestock and essential farm equipment. Protect crops where possible (e.g., harvesting early, covering vulnerable plants). Ensure backup power for critical operations like irrigation pumps or animal facilities.
- Healthcare Providers: Ensure backup power systems for critical medical equipment are functional. Confirm communication plans with staff and for patient follow-up. Have a plan for prioritizing care and managing potential surges in demand.
