Kauai rain abounds. Through most of the year, weather patterns are affected primarily by high-pressure zones in the north Pacific that pump cool, moist trade winds down onto the island's northeastern slopes. This holds true for most of the summer and approximately half of the time in the winter. These winds are forced up-slope by the mountain heights where their moisture condenses into clouds that produce rain. Most of the rain falls in the mountains and valleys on the windward (northeastern) side of the islands.
Photo credit: HTA / Kirk Lee Aeder
It is this weather phenomenon that creates the rich tropical environment for flowers and verdant greens. The wettest months are from November - March, but winter rains do not generally disrupt plans, since the weather is localized. This means that if it is raining where you are, there is almost always a sunny spot to be found around the coast.
Floods are an inevitable and natural part of life on any island, especially for those who live along streams and rivers. Homes that border rivers and dams on Kauai are flood prone, but serious floods have occurred throughout the state. It is important to be prepared and know what to do before disaster strikes.
Find out if you live in a flood prone area. If you are new to the area, ask your local public works or emergency government office about local flood history. Ask whether your property is above or below the flood stage water level.
If you live in a frequently flooded area, be sure to stockpile emergency building materials. These include plywood, plastic sheeting, lumber, nails, hammer, saw, pry bar, shovels and sandbags.
Plan and practice an evacuation route. Contact your emergency government office or local American Red Cross chapter for a copy of the community flood evacuation plan. This plan should include information on the safest routes to shelters. Individuals living in flash flood areas should have several alternate routes to higher ground.
Have emergency supplies on hand.
a) Flashlights and extra batteries
b) Portable battery-operated radio and extra batteries
c) First-aid kit and manual; essential medicines
d) Emergency food, water, cooking equipment, can opener
e) Cash and credit cards
An emergency communication plan is imperative. In case family members are separated during a disaster because of work or school, choose a long-distance relative or friend who can serve as the "family contact." After a disaster, it is often easier to call long-distance than to place a local call. Make sure everyone in the family knows the name, address and phone number of the contact person.
Keep the car fueled. Stations may not be able to operate because of lack of electricity. And, after a flood, don't return home until authorities have indicated it is safe.
When entering buildings after a flood or storm you should use extreme caution. Potential hazards include gas leaks and electrocution. Leave your home immediately and call the gas company if you smell the putrid odor of leaking gas. Lanterns, torches, electrical sparks and cigarettes could cause an explosive fire if there is a leak. Do not turn on any light switches.
Wear rubber gloves and rubber-soled shoes to avoid electrocution. Do not turn on any lights or appliances if the house has been flooded. Turn off the electricity when checking electrical circuits and equipment or when checking a flooded basement.
Be especially aware of your surroundings and watch for falling debris and the possibility of collapsing ceilings and basement walls. Do not use water or eat food that has come in contact with floodwaters.