2:45 p.m. 09-21-2026 HAENA – Water has been restored on Alamihi Road. Earlier, reports of low pressure were reported due to a utility company striking the water main.
8 a.m. 09-19-2026 KAUAI – REMINDER: To receive Department of Water DOW Alert notifications for your area, via text, voice, or email, or to check your notification status and make contact updates, you must self-register at kauai.gov/kema/ and be sure to select DOW Alerts.
1:50 p.m. (UPDATE) – Water service has been restored. The location of the break allowed DOW crews to easily access the line for the repairs. — 12 p.m. 09-18-2026 KILAUEA – A contractor has struck the main line causing low pressure. An emergency water service… Read more: KILAUEA
KAUA’I – The Department of Water (DOW) has lifted the water conservation notice for the Anahola Water System service area, on Thursday, September 17, 2026. Customers in the Anahola Water System service area may now resume normal water use. Water Conservation Notice remains in effect… Read more: Water Conservation Notice lifted for Anahola service area on Sept. 17
6:00 a.m. 09-17-2026 (FINAL UPDATE) – The broken line was due to a contractor striking the mainline. DOW crews completed repair work on 09-16-2026 and water was restored. — 10:20 p.m. (UPDATE) – Due to a broken water line, low pressure, and water service outages are affecting portions of Kilauea. DOW crews will repair the line, and water is expected to be restored by approximately 2 a.m. on 09-17-2026. — 9:50 p.m. 09-16-2026 KILAUEA – DOW is aware of reports of water service issues affecting Kilauea. Updates will be posted as they become available.
LĪHUʻE, Hawaiʻi — The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) notifies highway users of the complete closure of the Mauka Wailua Bridge on Sunday, Sept. 27 and Sunday, Oct. 4, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. for paving. Two-way traffic will be maintained utilizing the Mayor Bryan Baptiste Memorial Bridge, (Plantation Bridge), with one lane in each direction. The paving work is part of the Wailua Bridge Repairs Project. The final stage of striping has been delayed due to Hurricane Lowell. The project is expected to be completed in mid-October 2026. Variable message boards have been posted along Kūhiō Highway to alert road users. To view scheduled Kauaʻi lane closures for the week visit https://hidot.hawaii.gov/highways/roadwork/kauai/ Media contact: HDOT Public Affairs Office Phone: 808-587-2160 Email: [email protected]
LĪHUʻE, Hawaiʻi – The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT) notifies road users of the installation of two raised crosswalks; one on Kūhiō Highway in Anahola, and one on Kaumualiʻi Highway in Lāwaʻi. This will require a single-lane closure in one direction at a time. These installations were originally scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 6 through Friday, Sept. 11. Due to the impacts of Hurricane Lowell, work was rescheduled for Monday, Sept. 21 to Friday, Sept. 25 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. The raised crosswalk in Anahola will be installed between Ioane Road and Kalalea Road. In Lawai it will be installed between Piko Road and Akemāmā Road. A study found the Lāwaʻi area to have a high number of bus patrons crossing the road where the raised crosswalk will be installed. Speed was also a factor in the installation decision, with 85 percent of motorists going over the 35-mph speed limit. The Anahola raised crosswalk will help the high number of bus patrons cross the highway safely. Between April 23 – 27, 2026 there were 380 instances of vehicles traveling above 60 mph, well over the 35-mph speed limit. HDOT is installing traffic-calming devices, including raised crosswalks, speed tables and speed humps to promote pedestrian safety, by providing drivers a physical reminder to reduce their speed. For additional information on existing and planned speed humps or raised crosswalks, visit the HDOT Safety Improvement Map at https://hidot.hawaii.gov/highways/safety-map/ Work is weather permitting. For weekly lane closure information visit the website at, https://hidot.hawaii.gov/highways/roadwork/kauai/ Media contact: HDOT Public Affairs Office Phone: 808-587-2160 Email: [email protected]
Condition compares the latest reading to USGS WaterWatch-style percentiles of daily mean values for this time of year (period of record): Normal (25th–75th), Above normal (75th–90th), Much above normal (90th–98th), and High (≥98th percentile). Streamflow is shown for all gages; river and reservoir level is shown only where the datum is representative. Flood indicators for river level are based on USGS/NWS site-specific thresholds.
LĪHUʻE – The County of Kauaʻi will resume in-person services at the Līhuʻe Civic Center on Monday, Sept. 28, following the Sept. 9 Kāpule Building fire.
While counters are reopening, County departments are still restoring computer systems, and some services may take longer than usual. Residents are encouraged to call or email their office before visiting to confirm the service they need is available and to avoid an unnecessary trip. Online services through connect.kauai.gov are temporarily unavailable while County computer systems damaged in the fire are restored. Please be advised that the DMV remains closed until further notice.
Līhuʻe Civic Center services and contacts
Office of the Mayor: Moʻikeha Building, Suite 235. General inquiries and requests for the Mayor. (808) 241-4900 | mayor@kauai.gov
Office of the County Attorney: Moʻikeha Building, Suite 220. General inquiries. The office does not provide legal advice to the public. (808) 241-4930 | cokcountyattorney@kauai.gov
Department of Finance: Moʻikeha Building, Suite 280. General finance questions. (808) 241-4200 | finance@kauai.gov
Division of Motor Vehicles: Mobile trailer in the Līhuʻe Civic Center parking lot and the Kapaʻa satellite DMV. General questions and vehicle registration renewals. (808) 241-1949 | kauaidmv@kauai.gov
Real Property Division: Former Purchasing Office, Suite 303, across from the Kāpule Building. Exemption applications, property tax records and disaster relief claims: (808) 652-7490 | rpassessment@kauai.gov. Billing and collections: (808) 241-4272 | rpc@kauai.gov
Housing Agency: Piʻikoi Building, Suite 330. Section 8 program clients and waitlist applicants: (808) 241-4440. Housing Development Division, including cesspool conversion, Homebuyer program and payments: (808) 241-4444. housing@kauai.gov
Public Works Administration: Moʻikeha Building, Suite 275. (808) 241-4992 | publicworks@kauai.gov
Building Division: Moʻikeha Building, Suite 175. Building permit status checks. (808) 241-4854 | building@kauai.gov
Engineering Division: Moʻikeha Building, Suite 175. Plan approval status checks. (808) 241-4883 | pwengineering@kauai.gov
Roads Division: Moʻikeha Building, Suite 255. Road and pothole reports by phone or email. (808) 241-4847 | pwroads@kauai.gov
Solid Waste Division: Moʻikeha Building, Suite 295. Trash collection, refuse and recycling requests. (808) 241-4841 | solidwaste@kauai.gov
Department of Parks and Recreation: Moʻikeha Building, Suite 105. (808) 241-4460 | parks@kauai.gov
Parks Permit Section: Moʻikeha Building, Suite 150. (808) 241-4463 | recpermits@kauai.gov
Planning Department: Building Division counter, Moʻikeha Building, Suite 175. New zoning permit applications, SMA assessment applications, review of pending permits and general questions. (808) 241-4050 | planningdepartment@kauai.gov
Kauaʻi Fire Department: Piʻikoi Building, Suite 315. Fire prevention questions, education requests and fire reports. (808) 241-4980 | kfd@kauai.gov
Department of Liquor Control: Moʻikeha Building, Suite 120. Liquor licensing and general questions. (808) 241-4966 | liquor@kauai.gov
Human Resources: Moʻikeha Building, Suite 140. Job applications and general employment questions. (808) 241-4956 | humanresources@kauai.gov
Agency on Elderly Affairs: Piʻikoi Building, Suite 330. Information and referral, nutrition, fitness, transportation and volunteer programs. (808) 241-4470 | elderlyaffairs@kauai.gov
Office of Economic Development: Moʻikeha Building, Suite 200. Grant and business recovery questions, and the Kauaʻi Made program. (808) 241-4946 | oed@kauai.gov
Office of Boards and Commissions: Piʻikoi Building, Suite 300. Board applications, complaints and meeting information. (808) 241-4917 | boardsandcommissions@kauai.gov
Other County services (not at the Līhuʻe Civic Center)
Council Services Division, Office of the County Clerk: Historic County Building, 4396 Rice Street, Suite 209. Council meetings, agendas, and public testimony. (808) 241-4188 | cokcouncil@kauai.gov
Elections Division, Office of the County Clerk: Historic County Annex Building, 4386 Rice Street, Suite 106. Voter registration and election information. (808) 241-4800 | elections@kauai.gov
Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency: 3990 Kaʻana Street, Suite 100. Emergency preparedness and alert sign-up assistance. (808) 241-1800 | kema@kauai.gov
Kauaʻi Police Department: 3990 Kaʻana Street, Suite 200. Non-emergency reports and police records. For emergencies, call 911. (808) 241-1711 | kpdrecords@kauai.gov
Office of the Prosecuting Attorney: 3990 Kaʻana Street, Suite 210. Criminal matters and general questions. (808) 241-1888 | prosecutor@kauai.gov
Transportation Agency (Kauaʻi Bus): General information, paratransit services, fixed route services, bus pass and fare. (808) 246-8110 | thekauaibus@kauai.gov
For the quickest response, callers are encouraged to speak with a live person rather than leave a voicemail.
We appreciate your patience, understanding, and cooperation.
For more information, please contact the Office of the Mayor at (808) 241-4900 or mayor@kauai.gov.
If you need an ASL interpreter, materials in an alternate format, or other auxiliary aid support, or an interpreter for a language other than English, please contact the Office of the Mayor at (808) 241-4900 or CountyPIO@kauai.gov as soon as possible. Requests made as early as possible will allow adequate time to fulfill your request. Upon request, this notice is available in alternate formats such as large print, Braille, or electronic copy.
NR 09-27-26 (In-person services resume Monday at Līhuʻe Civic Center)
LĪHUʻE – Hurricane Nolo continues to move west, well south of the main Hawaiian Islands, but Kauaʻi can expect dangerous surf over the next few days. Please see the latest updates below.
Hurricane Nolo
Weather outlook
As of 11 a.m. Sunday, Hurricane Nolo was a Category 3 hurricane about 365 miles south-southwest of Honolulu, moving west near 12 mph with maximum sustained winds near 115 mph. A turn toward the northwest is expected Sunday night and is forecast to continue through Tuesday. On the forecast track, the center will remain well south and southwest of the main Hawaiian Islands, according to the National Weather Service Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Nolo is forecast to peak in strength Monday, then gradually weaken.
A Hurricane Watch is in effect for the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument from Nihoa to French Frigate Shoals. There are no tropical storm or hurricane watches or warnings in effect for the main Hawaiian Islands, including Kauaʻi.
Wind: Strong, gusty winds were expected across all islands through Sunday. Secure loose outdoor items and storm debris.
Rain: Nolo is no longer expected to bring heavy rain to the state.
Surf: Swells from Nolo are affecting exposed east- and south-facing shores and will continue over the next few days, likely causing life-threatening surf and rip currents. Stay out of the water and away from the shoreline.
Hurricane Nolo updates are available at hurricanes.gov and weather.gov/hfo.
Emergency preparedness
The Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency (KEMA) encourages every household, business, and visitor to take time now to build or refresh an emergency kit, review your family plan, and know your evacuation route. Preparation is the single most important step in keeping yourself, your loved ones, and your neighbors safe.
Disaster kits should include at least a 14-day supply of non-perishable food, one gallon of water per person per day, a battery-powered radio, a flashlight with extra batteries, an extra supply of prescription medicines, important documents in a waterproof container, cash in small bills, and other items specific to individual and family needs, including those of keiki, kūpuna, pets, and individuals with access and functional needs.
Wildfire prevention
Gusty winds and ongoing hurricane cleanup increase wildfire risk. Residents and businesses are encouraged to avoid activities that could cause sparks, such as landscaping during hot, dry, windy afternoons. Keep a water source nearby in case a spark occurs. Do not burn green waste or storm debris. Before leaving a work area, check for smoldering material.
Hurricane Lowell Recovery
North Shore debris pickup
Hurricane Lowell debris pickup begins Monday, Sept. 28, weather permitting. Crews will work from Wainiha through Hāʻena, as far as roads are accessible. Because some roads are inaccessible, all items must be placed along the county or state right-of-way. Crews cannot pick up from private property.
Crews will take furniture, appliances, metals, and construction debris. Please sort your pile into separate groups: appliances in one, metals in another, and construction debris in its own pile. Crews will NOT take green waste or propane tanks. Pickup will continue until the area is complete. If crews don’t reach you on the first pass, they will return.
Hurricane resource centers
The Hanalei and Kōloa hurricane resource centers are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the following locations:
Hanalei Neighborhood Center, 5-5358 Kūhiō Highway, Hanalei
Kōloa Neighborhood Center, 3461B Weliweli Road, Kōloa
Unemployment insurance: State Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) staff will provide in-person help with unemployment insurance applications on these dates:
KIUC restored power to Wainiha and Hāʻena on Sept. 24. Some members in Kōkeʻe and other areas of Kauaʻi remain without power. Restoration in Kōkeʻe will take longer because of the extensive work needed there, and full restoration is not expected for several weeks. Do not approach utility crews or enter work areas.
Members needing a payment plan or financial help can visit kiuc.coop/payment-assistance or call (808) 246-4300. Collections for delinquent accounts are suspended at this time. Outage map: kiuc.outagemap.coop.
The Department of Water continues its Water Conservation Notice for customers in ʻAnini. The Water Conservation Notice for Hāʻena-Wainiha was lifted Sept. 25. Report outages or leaks at (808) 245-5444.
Refuse
Seven debris and refuse sites are open islandwide, with tipping fees waived for storm debris. Hours and accepted materials are at www.kauairecovers.org/debris.
Report storm damage
Residents are still encouraged to report storm damage, which helps show the extent of damage across the island and may help Kauaʻi qualify for state and federal aid. File at bit.ly/kauaidamage. Report roadway and public space hazards at bit.ly/kauaihazard. Businesses can report at bit.ly/lowelldamage. Residents should still file a claim with their insurance company.
County of Kauaʻi Services
Contacts for County of Kauaʻi offices
General phone lines for most County departments have been restored. For the quickest response, callers are advised to speak to a live person rather than leave a voicemail. For a list of working numbers, visit www.kauairecovers.org/contact-us.
Līhuʻe Civic Center
In-person services at the Līhuʻe Civic Center resume Monday, Sept. 28. County systems continue to be restored following the Sept. 9 Kapule Building fire. Services may be limited or slower than usual. Additional details will be announced.
Please call the office you plan to visit before going in. Working numbers are listed at www.kauairecovers.org/contact-us.
Building permits and storm repairs
The Building Division is open and processing permit applications, including those submitted before Hurricane Lowell and new applications. Service may be slower than usual while County systems are restored.
The Building Division counter is at 4444 Rice St., Suite 175, in Līhuʻe, open weekdays from 7:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. Planning staff are also available at the counter for zoning permit questions.
Pending applications will continue to be reviewed in the order received. Storm repairs covered by the emergency order do not go through the permit process and will not delay pending applications.
The online permit status lookup, Click2Gov, is not available. For a status update, call (808) 241-4854 or email building@kauai.gov.
Most homes and buildings: If your home or building was built with a County building permit and is not in a flood zone, you do not need a new permit to make necessary repairs for Hurricane Lowell damage. There is no fee and no County inspection is required, but work must still meet building codes. This includes building, electrical, plumbing, driveway, and sign repairs.
Properties in a flood zone: Contact the Department of Public Works Engineering Division at (808) 241-4883 or pwengineering@kauai.gov before starting work. Include an elevation certificate if you have one. Structures with repair costs equal to 50 percent or more of their value need a building permit and must be rebuilt to current flood standards. Stockpiling debris in a regulatory floodway is prohibited.
Properties near the shoreline: Repairs require a Special Management Area (SMA) assessment determination before work begins. The same 50 percent standard applies. Contact the Planning Department at planningdepartment@kauai.gov.
Property owners who would like an inspection of their storm repairs may contact the Building Division. Answers to common permit questions are at www.kauairecovers.org.
Real Property Division
The deadline to file real property tax exemption applications is Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026. No extensions will be granted.
In-person help is available at the former Purchasing Office at the Līhuʻe Civic Center, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, and at the Hanalei and Kōloa hurricane resource centers through Sept. 30.
Property owners who applied but did not receive an emailed confirmation should resubmit their application.
Applications may be submitted by email to rpassessment@kauai.gov (preferred), by mail, or at one of two drop boxes: the Moʻikeha Building, ground floor, Monday through Friday from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and the Piʻikoi Building fronting Rice Street.
Owners of storm-damaged property have until June 30, 2027, to file for disaster tax relief at www.kauai.gov/Residents/Report-Hurricane-Lowell-Property-Damage.
For assessment questions, contact (808) 652-7490 or rpassessment@kauai.gov. For billing and collections questions, contact (808) 241-4272 or rpc@kauai.gov.
Division of Motor Vehicles
The DMV satellite office in Kapaʻa and a trailer in the Līhuʻe Civic Center parking lot are available for inquiries only. The DMV offers no other counter services.
At this time, expired driver’s licenses that cannot be renewed due to the DMV closure will not be penalized.
Vehicle registration renewals are available online at mvr.ehawaii.gov/renewals/kauai/lookup and at community kiosks in Hanapēpē, Līhuʻe, Kapaʻa, and Princeville.
Kauaʻi County residents can use the City and County of Honolulu’s online portal to request a replacement or duplicate copy of a valid Hawaiʻi driver’s license at mydmv.hnl.info/hnldl/duplicates.
Kauaʻi farmers markets
Several farmers markets have reopened:
Monday: Kukui Grove Pau Hana Market, 3 to 5:30 p.m., 3-2600 Kaumualiʻi Highway, Līhuʻe
Wednesday: Kapaʻa Sunshine Market at Kapaʻa Beach Park, 3 to 4:30 p.m., 4-1604 Kūhiō Highway, Kapaʻa; and Kauaʻi Culinary Market, 3:30 to 6 p.m., 2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka St., Poʻipū
Thursday: Coconut Marketplace, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 4-484 Kūhiō Highway, Kapaʻa; and Hale Puna, 3 to 5 p.m., 9600 Kaumualiʻi Highway, Waimea
Saturday: Grove Farm Market at Puhi, beginning at 9:30 a.m. until supplies last, 4411 Kīkōwaena St., Līhuʻe
For more information about farmers markets and Sunshine Markets, call the Office of Economic Development at (808) 241-4946.
County of Kauaʻi facilities
Open neighborhood centers: Kīlauea Neighborhood Center, Kapaʻa Neighborhood Center, Waimea Neighborhood Center (side rooms only; main hall closed due to damage), Waimea Smokey Valley Clubhouse, Hanapēpē Neighborhood Center and Multipurpose Center, Kalāheo Neighborhood Center, Līhuʻe Neighborhood Center (old and new), Anahola Clubhouse, and Kekaha Neighborhood Center (patio only for previously scheduled parties).
Kauaʻi Bus fares are waived through Sept. 30. The 900 and 950 express routes are not running.
Wailua Golf Course reopens Monday, Sept. 28, with the front nine only.
Waimea and Kapaʻa pools remain closed.
County park closures: Salt Pond (park and pavilions), Kaumakani (pavilion without electricity), and Hanapēpē Stadium (football field, pavilion, restrooms, and tennis courts).
All HI5 Redemption Centers are open. There are temporarily no Kauaʻi Recycles drop bins at the Hanalei Refuse Transfer Station. Recyclables are being accepted at Nanina Hou Community Park in Kīlauea on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Other updates
Boards and Commissions meetings are scheduled to resume in October. A calendar of upcoming meetings is at www.kauai.gov/Government/Boards-and-Commissions.
The Sept. 8 Planning Commission meeting has been rescheduled to Oct. 13. Agenda items originally scheduled for Oct. 13 will also be considered at this meeting. For more information, contact the Planning Department at (808) 241-4050 or visit www.kauai.gov/Planning-Commission.
County of Kauaʻi alerts
To sign up for Everbridge, the County’s emergency notification service, visit www.kauai.gov/KEMA and click “Notification Services,” text “KAUAIEMA” to 888777, or call KEMA at (808) 241-1800.
Updates on County of Kauaʻi services and hurricane recovery information are available at www.kauairecovers.org or by calling 211.
NR 09-27-26 (11:25 a.m., Sept. 27, County of Kauaʻi Hurricane Lowell recovery and Kapule Building fire update)
LĪHUʻE – The County of Kauaʻi Building Division is open to the public and processing permit applications starting Monday, Sept. 28. Staff are working on applications submitted before Hurricane Lowell and accepting new applications.
Some County systems are still being restored after the Sept. 9 Kāpule Building fire, so service may be slower than usual. Depending on where an application is in the process, staff may accept payment and contact applicants when their permit is ready for pickup.
The County is also updating its guidance on Hurricane Lowell repairs to include properties in flood zones.
Future updates will announce changes to other in-person services at the Līhuʻe Civic Center.
Repairing storm damage
Most homes and buildings: If your home or building was built with a County building permit and you are not in a flood zone, you do not need a new building permit to make necessary repairs for Hurricane Lowell damage. There is no fee, and no County inspections will be required. The work must still meet building codes. This includes building, electrical, plumbing, driveway and sign repairs. Questions: building@kauai.gov or call the Building Division at 808-241-4854.
Most homes and buildings: If your home or building was built with a County building permit and you are not in a flood zone, you do not need a new building permit to make necessary repairs for Hurricane Lowell damage. There is no fee, and no County inspections will be required. The work must still meet building codes. This includes building, electrical, plumbing, driveway and sign repairs. Questions: building@kauai.gov or call the Building Division at 808-241-4854.
Properties in a flood zone: Contact the Department of Public Works Engineering Division at 808-241-4883 or pwengineering@kauai.gov before starting work. Each property is reviewed individually. If you have an elevation certificate for your structure, please include it, since County copies may not be available while systems are being restored. Structures with substantial damage, meaning repair costs equal to 50 percent or more of the structure’s value, need a building permit and must be rebuilt to meet current flood standards. Stockpiling debris within a regulatory floodway is prohibited at all times.
Properties in a flood zone: Contact the Department of Public Works Engineering Division at 808-241-4883 or pwengineering@kauai.gov before starting work. Each property is reviewed individually. If you have an elevation certificate for your structure, please include it, since County copies may not be available while systems are being restored. Structures with substantial damage, meaning repair costs equal to 50 percent or more of the structure’s value, need a building permit and must be rebuilt to meet current flood standards. Stockpiling debris within a regulatory floodway is prohibited at all times.
Properties near the shoreline: Repairs require a Special Management Area (SMA) assessment determination before work begins. Work done without one may be subject to violations. The same 50 percent substantial damage standard applies. Contact the Planning Department at planningdepartment@kauai.gov.
Properties near the shoreline: Repairs require a Special Management Area (SMA) assessment determination before work begins. Work done without one may be subject to violations. The same 50 percent substantial damage standard applies. Contact the Planning Department at planningdepartment@kauai.gov.
Inspections: Property owners who would like an inspection of their storm repairs may contact the Building Division for more information.
Inspections: Property owners who would like an inspection of their storm repairs may contact the Building Division for more information.
Pending and new permit applications
Where to go: The Building Division counter is at 4444 Rice St., Suite 175, in Līhuʻe, open weekdays from 7:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. Planning staff are also available at the counter for zoning permit questions.
Where to go: The Building Division counter is at 4444 Rice St., Suite 175, in Līhuʻe, open weekdays from 7:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. Planning staff are also available at the counter for zoning permit questions.
Pending applications: Applications already in the system will continue to be reviewed in the order they were received. Storm repairs covered by the emergency order do not go through the permit process and will not delay pending applications.
Pending applications: Applications already in the system will continue to be reviewed in the order they were received. Storm repairs covered by the emergency order do not go through the permit process and will not delay pending applications.
Checking your permit status: The online permit status lookup, Click2Gov, is not available. Call the Building Division at 808-241-4854 or email building@kauai.gov for an update.
Checking your permit status: The online permit status lookup, Click2Gov, is not available. Call the Building Division at 808-241-4854 or email building@kauai.gov for an update.
Answers to common permit questions are available at www.kauairecovers.org .
For more information, please contact the Building Division at 808-241-4854 or building@kauai.gov.
To receive emergency alerts, sign up for Everbridge by visiting www.kauai.gov/KEMA and clicking “Notification Services,” texting “KAUAIEMA” to 888777, or calling KEMA at 808-241-1800.
If you need an ASL interpreter, materials in an alternate format, or other auxiliary aid support, or an interpreter for a language other than English, please contact the Office of the Mayor at 808-241-4900 or CountyPIO@kauai.gov as soon as possible. Requests made as early as possible will allow adequate time to fulfill your request. Upon request, this notice is available in alternate formats such as large print, Braille, or electronic copy.
NR 09-27-26 (Building Division open, processing permits; storm repair guidance updated for flood zones)
LĪHUʻE – Hurricane Lowell recovery continues across Kauaʻi County. Hurricane Nolo is forecast to pass well south of the main Hawaiian Islands, but Kauaʻi can expect strong, gusty winds and high surf this weekend and early next week. Please see the latest updates below.
Hurricane Nolo
Weather outlook
As of 11 a.m. Saturday, Hurricane Nolo was about 160 miles south of South Point on Hawaiʻi Island, moving west near 5 mph with maximum sustained winds near 90 mph. Nolo is expected to pick up speed to the west today, then gradually turn northwest around Sunday night. On the forecast track, the center will stay well south and southwest of the main Hawaiian Islands. Nolo is expected to remain a hurricane through the weekend, according to the National Weather Service.
A Tropical Storm Warning remains in effect for Hawaiʻi County, and a Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Maui County. No tropical storm or hurricane watches or warnings are in effect for Kauaʻi County.
Wind: Strong trade winds between Nolo and high pressure are now the biggest concern for Kauaʻi, with the strongest winds expected Sunday. A Wind Advisory is in effect for Kauaʻi and Niʻihau through 6 p.m. Sunday, with winds of 25 to 35 mph and gusts to 55 mph. These winds could blow down trees and unsecured items, cause power outages, and make driving difficult. Secure loose outdoor items and storm debris.
Rain: Up to 1 inch of rain is possible on Kauaʻi through Sunday. No Flood Watch is in effect for Kauaʻi.
Surf: A High Surf Advisory is in effect for east-facing shores of Kauaʻi and Niʻihau through 6 p.m. Sunday. Surf from Nolo will also spread west along south-facing shores through the weekend, and dangerous surf is expected through Tuesday. Stay out of the water and away from the shoreline.
Marine: A Gale Watch is in effect for Kauaʻi waters tonight and Sunday.
Hurricane Nolo updates are available at hurricanes.gov and weather.gov/hfo.
Emergency preparedness
The Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency (KEMA) encourages every household, business, and visitor to take time now to build or refresh an emergency kit, review your family plan, and know your evacuation route. Preparation is the single most important step in keeping yourself, your loved ones, and your neighbors safe.
Disaster kits should include at least a 14-day supply of non-perishable food, one gallon of water per person per day, a battery-powered radio, a flashlight with extra batteries, an extra supply of prescription medicines, important documents in a waterproof container, cash in small bills, and other items specific to individual and family needs, including those of keiki, kūpuna, pets, and individuals with access and functional needs.
Wildfire prevention
High winds from Hurricane Nolo and ongoing hurricane cleanup increase wildfire risk. Residents and businesses are encouraged to avoid activities that could cause sparks, such as landscaping during hot, dry, windy afternoons. Keep a water source nearby in case a spark occurs. Do not burn green waste or storm debris. Before leaving a work area, check for smoldering material.
Hurricane Lowell Recovery
North Shore debris pickup
Hurricane Lowell debris pickup begins Monday morning, Sept. 28, weather permitting. Crews will work from Wainiha through Hāʻena, as far as roads are accessible. Because some roads are inaccessible, all items must be placed along the county or state right-of-way. Crews cannot pick up from private property. Please have items out by Sunday evening.
Crews will take furniture, appliances, metals, and construction debris. Please sort your pile into separate groups: appliances in one, metals in another, and construction debris in its own pile. Crews will NOT take green waste or propane tanks. Pickup will continue until the area is complete. If crews don’t reach you on the first pass, they will return.
Hurricane resource centers
The Hanalei and Kōloa hurricane resource centers are open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.. After this weekend, they will be open Monday through Friday only. The following locations are available:
Hanalei Neighborhood Center, 5-5358 Kūhiō Highway, Hanalei
Kōloa Neighborhood Center, 3461B Weliweli Road, Kōloa
Unemployment insurance: State Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) staff will provide in-person help with unemployment insurance applications on these dates:
As of Thursday evening, Sept. 24, KIUC has restored power to Wainiha and Hāʻena. Some members in Kōkeʻe and other areas of Kauaʻi remain without power. Do not approach utility crews or enter work areas. Members needing a payment plan or financial help can visit kiuc.coop/payment-assistance or call (808) 246-4300. Outage map: kiuc.outagemap.coop.
The Department of Water continues its Water Conservation Notices for customers in ʻAnini. The Water Conservation Notice for Hāʻena-Wainiha. was lifted Sept. 25.. Report outages or leaks at (808) 245-5444.
Refuse
Seven debris and refuse sites are open islandwide, with tipping fees waived for storm debris. Hours and accepted materials are at www.kauairecovers.org/debris .
Report storm damage
Residents are still encouraged to report storm damage, which helps show the extent of damage across the island and may help Kauaʻi qualify for state and federal aid. File at bit.ly/kauaidamage. Report roadway and public space hazards at bit.ly/kauaihazard. Businesses can report at bit.ly/lowelldamage. Residents should still file a claim with their insurance company.
County of Kauaʻi Services
Contacts for County of Kauaʻi offices
General phone lines for most County departments have been restored. For the quickest response, callers are advised to speak to a live person rather than leave a voicemail. For a list of working numbers, visit www.kauairecovers.org/contact-us .
Līhuʻe Civic Center
Most in-person services at the Līhuʻe Civic Center remain closed while computer systems are restored following the Sept. 9 Kāpule Building fire. Services will be announced as they reopen.
County offices outside the Līhuʻe Civic Center remain open.
Real Property Division
The deadline to file real property tax exemption applications is Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026. No extensions will be granted.
In-person help is available at the former Purchasing Office at the Līhuʻe Civic Center, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, and at the Hanalei and Kōloa hurricane resource centers daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., through Sept. 30.
Property owners who applied but did not receive an emailed confirmation should resubmit their application.
Applications may be submitted by email to rpassessment@kauai.gov (preferred), by mail, or at one of two drop boxes: the Moʻikeha Building, ground floor, Monday through Friday from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and the Piʻikoi Building fronting Rice Street.
Owners of storm-damaged property have until June 30, 2027, to file for disaster tax relief at www.kauai.gov/Residents/Report-Hurricane-Lowell-Property-Damage .
For assessment questions, contact (808) 652-7490 or rpassessment@kauai.gov. For billing and collections questions, contact (808) 241-4272 or rpc@kauai.gov.
Division of Motor Vehicles
The DMV satellite office in Kapaʻa and a trailer in the Līhuʻe Civic Center parking lot are available for inquiries only. The DMV offers no other counter services.
At this time, expired driver’s licenses that cannot be renewed due to the DMV closure will not be penalized.
Vehicle registration renewals are available online at mvr.ehawaii.gov/renewals/kauai/lookup and at community kiosks in Hanapēpē, Līhuʻe, Kapaʻa, and Princeville.
Kauaʻi County residents can use the City and County of Honolulu’s online portal to request a replacement or duplicate copy of a valid Hawaiʻi driver’s license at mydmv.hnl.info/hnldl/duplicates.
Kauaʻi farmers markets
Several farmers markets have reopened:
Monday: Kukui Grove Pau Hana Market, 3 to 5:30 p.m., 3-2600 Kaumualiʻi Highway, Līhuʻe
Wednesday: Kapaʻa Sunshine Market at Kapaʻa Beach Park, 3 to 4:30 p.m., 4-1604 Kūhiō Highway, Kapaʻa; and Kauaʻi Culinary Market, 3:30 to 6 p.m., 2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka St., Poʻipū
Thursday: Coconut Marketplace, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 4-484 Kūhiō Highway, Kapaʻa; and Hale Puna, 3 to 5 p.m., 9600 Kaumualiʻi Highway, Waimea
Saturday: Grove Farm Market at Puhi, beginning at 9:30 a.m. until supplies last, 4411 Kīkōwaena St., Līhuʻe
For more information about farmers markets and Sunshine Markets, call the Office of Economic Development at (808) 241-4946.
County of Kauaʻi facilities
Open neighborhood centers: Kīlauea Neighborhood Center, Kapaʻa Neighborhood Center, Waimea Neighborhood Center (side rooms only; main hall closed due to damage), Waimea Smokey Valley Clubhouse, Hanapēpē Neighborhood Center and Multipurpose Center, Kalāheo Neighborhood Center, Līhuʻe Neighborhood Center (old and new), Anahola Clubhouse, and Kekaha Neighborhood Center (patio only for previously scheduled parties).
Kauaʻi Bus fares are waived through Sept. 30. The 900 and 950 express routes are not running.
Waimea and Kapaʻa pools and Wailua Golf Course remain closed.
County park closures: Salt Pond (park and pavilions), Kaumakani (pavilion without electricity), and Hanapēpē Stadium (football field, pavilion, restrooms, and tennis courts).
All HI5 Redemption Centers are open. There are temporarily no Kauaʻi Recycles drop bins at the Hanalei Refuse Transfer Station. Recyclables are being accepted at Nanina Hou Community Park in Kīlauea on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Other updates
Boards and Commissions meetings are scheduled to resume in October. A calendar of upcoming meetings is at www.kauai.gov/Government/Boards-and-Commissions .
The Sept. 8 Planning Commission meeting has been rescheduled to Oct. 13. Agenda items originally scheduled for Oct. 13 will also be considered at this meeting. For more information, contact the Planning Department at (808) 241-4050 or visit www.kauai.gov/Planning-Commission .
County of Kauaʻi alerts
To sign up for Everbridge, the County’s emergency notification service, visit www.kauai.gov/KEMA and click “Notification Services,” text “KAUAIEMA” to 888777, or call KEMA at (808) 241-1800.
Updates on County of Kauaʻi services and hurricane recovery information are available at www.kauairecovers.org or by calling 211.
NR 09-26-26 (Sept. 26, 11:30 a.m., County of Kauaʻi, Hurricane Lowell Recovery and Kapule Building Fire Update)
LĪHUʻE – The DMV on O‘ahu is temporarily stepping in to assist Kaua‘i residents who need an online duplicate of their driver’s licenses.
The temporary assistance responds directly to the recent fire at the Līhu‘e Civic Center, which severely disrupted local government facilities and halted standard driver licensing services on Kaua‘i.
Beginning immediately, Kauaʻi County residents can use the City and County of Honolulu's online portal to request a replacement or duplicate copy of their valid Hawaiʻi driver’s license.
The recent fire destroyed the primary administrative and IT hub for Kauaʻi’s DMV, leaving many residents without access to essential credential replacements.
While Kauaʻi officials have worked to restore select vehicle registration and inquiry services via drop boxes, kiosks, and the Kapaʻa Armory, full on-island driver licensing and reprinting capabilities remain offline.
“By expanding access to our online portal, we can help ease the burden for Kauaʻi residents, who urgently need a valid physical license while their home county rebuilds its operations,” said Department of Customer Service Director Kim Hashiro, whose oversight responsibilities include the DMV in the City and County of Honolulu.
"The fire at the Kāpule Building took out systems our residents count on every day, and we know how hard it's been for people who need a valid license to work, travel, or care for their families,” said Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami. “We're deeply grateful to Director Hashiro and the City and County of Honolulu for opening their doors to Kaua‘i. This is what it looks like when our counties take care of each other. Our team is working every day to bring driver licensing back home, and we'll keep residents informed at kauairecovers.org as each service is restored. Until then, we ask for continued patience, and we mahalo everyone who has shown up for one another through Hurricane Lowell and this fire."
The standard fee for an online duplicate is $7. We will print the new credential with the applicant's existing information on file and mail it directly to their address. Applicants should allow up to five weeks for delivery.
This service is for exact duplicate requests only. This temporary workaround cannot be used to change a name, residential address, or personal data. Kauaʻi residents can initiate their request by visiting the City and County of Honolulu’s duplicate portal .
The City and County of Honolulu’s online duplicate driver’s license portal is temporarily available to Kaua‘i residents.
Rates are periodically updated because beverage container sizes and weights change with time; all certified redemption centers are required to use the revised rates beginning Oct. 1.
Kaua‘i Police Department received reports that some callers using Verizon mobile service might experience difficulty connecting to the regular non-emergency dispatch line.
Many are struggling to prioritize education while addressing basic needs, home damage, caregiving, emotional exhaustion, utility disruptions and financial strain.
Closures are slated for 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. They are necessary for emergency tree removal work; traffic will be reduced to one lane with alternating flow with intermittent full road closures possible.
Baltic Sea: Tensions are high as a series of escalations have remained constant between NATO and Russia. Overnight a flight of Russian Tu-134 transport aircraft being escorted by fighters was observed patrolling over the Gulf of Finland, prompting Finland and Sweden to scramble fighters to intercept and identify the Russian aircraft.
Analyst Comment: This was the first time a joint identification mission was carried out between Finland and Sweden, but more generally this is a routine mission set and not really anything out of the ordinary. However, as the tensions around the continent remain high and European leaders have issued serious statements over the past few days urging war, these standard identification missions are usually the tip of the spear in terms of the potential for sharp escalations to occur. Fighter aircraft intercepting each other tends to be an opportunity for nations to keep up more active "foreign relations", and an increase in flights over international waters tends to be a barometer for determining how serious nations are with regard to their rhetoric. As it stands, a lot of bluster is going around between NATO and Russia, which will probably get more intense over the next few weeks.
Russia: Overnight, Ukraine increased attacks on Russian infrastructure in retaliation for last night's strikes in Kiev. Ukrainian drones targeted petroleum refineries in Perm and Rostov. A chemical plant was also struck in Voronezh, and a factory was hit in Ulyanovsk. In response, Russia continued strikes in and around Kiev, most notably targeting a McDonald's warehouse.
Analyst Comment: The strikes conducted by Ukraine were the most significant reported in a few weeks, all of which were conducted hundreds of miles from the front lines. The continual Ukrainian strikes on Russian petroleum infrastructure despite President Trump's order to cease these attacks is quite interesting, and highlights the frustrations within the United States regarding the administration of the war. At the moment, many are pointing the finger at Zelensky for his open defiance of the United States regarding strikes on Russian refineries, but reading between the lines in a larger sense, these strikes are also probably not explicitly and solely Zelensky's decision. Looking within, if the US genuinely wants to stop diesel refineries from getting hit (even Russian ones) a quick phone call to Langley is probably more effective in stopping Ukrainian targeting than anything else.
China: Yesterday the National Development and Reform Commission announced an increase in the price of gasoline and diesel, raising the national price cap for the second time in two weeks, bringing fuel prices to levels roughly 24-26% higher than pre-war levels.
Middle East: Overnight Houthi forces launched a total of 6x ballistic missiles toward various targets in Saudi Arabia. Saudi forces intercepted all missiles, with no impacts being reported on the ground.
Analyst Comment: Thankfully for the Saudis, this time missile defenses were effective at neutralizing the threat. However, this latest attack has strained the newly-signed Mecca Joint Defense Agreement, which is a mutual defense pact between Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey. Both Pakistan and Turkey are in a tough spot, because this new agreement is essentially the Arab version of NATO's Article 5 in that an attack on one, is treated as an attack on all. Neither Turkey nor Pakistan want to become involved in the Houthi crisis, and as a result have treated the Houthi problem as a "preexisting condition" which is not covered by their new defense policy. Either way, it's semantics at the end of the day, and the biggest threat to Saudi Arabia at present, is the Houthis.
Ukraine: Major missile strikes were reported in Kiev overnight. Several Iskander missiles struck targets around the city, targeting factories and various production facilities. Additionally, at least four different Zircon hypersonic missile strikes were reported, in addition to the short range ballistic missiles.
Poland: Overnight, a sabotage attack was reported at a Starlink communications hub south of Warsaw. Unidentified assailants set a generator on fire, along with a power distribution hub on site. This site is owned and operated by Exatel (the state-owned telecoms company) and functioned as a ground control station for the Polish military's use of Starlink. This attack took place at roughly the same time as the heavy missile strikes in Ukraine and Deputy Prime Minister Krzysztof Gawkowski stated that the attack is being treated as an act of sabotage.
Also in Poland a stabbing attack was reported this morning at a Benedictine Abbey in the town of Jaroslaw. One assailant attacked two priests on the grounds of the monastery, after stealing a knife from the kitchen. During the fray, a total of three clergy and two laypeople were wounded. One of the Sisters of the abbey stated that Father Stanisław was killed during the attack, and Father Marek remains in critical condition. The assailant was detained at the scene and was not identified by name. However local authorities state that the attacker is a Ukrainian national.
Europe: Following the intense targeting campaign between Russia and Ukraine overnight several runaway drones were reported, striking third party nations around the region. This morning a drone struck a wooded area near the border in Romania, and another drone impacted a farmers field in Moldova.
Middle East: Yesterday the Pentagon disclosed the death of another soldier related to the current war with Iran. Major Bianca Wilkerson died after suffering a non-combat related medical incident while onboard an aircraft bound for Saudi Arabia.
Analyst Comment: It is important to note the process for categorizing wartime casualties has changed somewhat since the start of the war. Operation EPIC FURY officially ended on May 5th. Ever since that date, all casualties have been logged under the general banner of "Overseas Operations", which includes US military casualty figures from all around the world, which are not cataloged under a different operation. As a result, it's challenging to determine exactly how casualties (both deaths and the wounded) are being counted.
United Kingdom: Immigration issues continue to develop, as channel boat crossings have escalated over the past few days. At least two inflatable boats made landfall in Kent overnight, prompting concerns as to why they were not intercepted and turned around before reaching land. The recent migration surge has resulted in widespread protests at port facilities throughout the country, which have also become more tense as authorities provide security for migration operations.
Middle East: This morning a commercial vessel was struck in the Strait of Hormuz, which resulted in a major fire. The crew of the M/V *CAPE DAO* abandoned ship, after one crew member was killed and another wounded during the strike.
Poland: Overnight one border incursion was reported near Braniewo, as a Russian helicopter from Kaliningrad flew south over the border. The helicopter flew about 300 meters into Polish airspace before returning to Kaliningrad less than a minute later. Poland scrambled fighters to intercept the aircraft, and ground forces were placed on alert in the border region.
Analyst Comment: This was probably a classic probing incident. Russia has very obviously been carrying out reconnaissance to probe air defenses and test NATO's response, and this case was probably intended to spin up Polish responses, which they dutifully did. Russia probably doesn't need to do this, but these types of light border incursions have been common over the past few decades. This incident is not exactly earth-shattering, but it's also not unremarkable either, and mostly serves as yet another example of how the Cold War era escalations remain constant.
-HomeFront-
Washington D.C. - As of this morning, American sanctions took effect to sanction nations which allow Iranian commercial aviation to operate within their country. These sanctions target nations that allow Iranian aircraft to land and refuel, with the United States threatening to cut off those nations from the US banking system.
Analyst Comment: In response to the United States announcing a total ban on Iranian commercial air travel around the world, China has announced that they will continue to allow Iranian commercial aircraft to operate within their nation. This position was announced the same day that the White House welcomes President Xi for his first state visit in a decade.
New York: The United Nations General Assembly continues as before. Various protest events took place outside the UN building throughout the day, including a few minor groups which blocked traffic for a short while.
Analyst Comment: Otherwise, an alleged meeting also took place between American and Iranian diplomats on the sidelines of the Assembly, which does not appear to have resulted in any sort of positive movement toward a peace agreement. Both sides appear to be heavily entrenched in their positions, with no real room for actual negotiations at the moment.
Illinois: The Joliet Refinery is returning to normal operations, after being offline for the past ten days due to flooding which caused a power outage. Fuel prices are expected to drop by a few cents throughout the Midwest as this refinery begins to come back online, with gas prices expected to return to the national average after being elevated due to this refinery being offline.
Saudi Arabia: Officials have announced that some repairs to the East-West Pipeline have been conducted, and some form of capacity has allegedly returned. Some exports are expected to return within a few days, however no onloading of crude has actually occurred yet.
Analyst Comment: It will take about a week or so to determine exactly how much crude is able to flow through whatever repairs were made.
Europe: Overnight Lithuania disclosed an airspace incident in Vilnius, claiming that Belarus released large balloons which drifted into Lithuanian airspace in the vicinity of Vilnius International Airport. Aircraft were grounded for some time due to the incursions, but flights were able to resume later on last night.
Analyst Comment: This has happened before, and is a common annoyance that is squarely in the realm of an act that is enough to cause problems, but not big enough of a problem to launch a war over. Lithuania lost no time in calling this incident a "hybrid war attack", and as a result tensions remain high throughout the region.
-HomeFront-
New York: The UN General Assembly continues, with President Trump speaking before the UN this morning. During his remarks, the main items of note included threatening regime change in Cuba, and threatening further military action in Iran. In addition to the standard proceedings, President Trump also signed a trilateral agreement with Greenland and Denmark, securing terms to build two new American bases in the arctic, which will bolster the American presence in Greenland.
Washington D.C. - Media concerns continue as the White House has banned several legacy media outlets. CNN, Politico, and MS NOW have been banned from the press pool, and not allowed on White House grounds. As a result, most other media outlets have refused to cover White House events, with journalists protesting the move by not showing up, leaving the White House Press Pool effectively empty. At around the same time as the media ban, the White House announced a new state-sponsored media outlet, Trump TV, which will feature all approved messaging from the White House.
Analyst Comment: Though the squabble between the White House and the legacy media would normally not be worthy of note, at this point this saga is resulting in logistical issues. No tears shall be shed for legacy media, but right now things are happening around the world, and they are quite literally the only entities that are allowed into the White House to directly question officials. At a time when the US is involved in two major wars that are expanding by the day, a state-sponsored TV channel is not an ideal form of information exchange.
Europe: Tensions are escalating between NATO and Russia, after Lithuania and Latvia have released alleged Russian plans to conduct more active "hybrid war" targeting within the Baltic states, as major military exercises continue around the region. In Lithuania, the STRONG GRIFFIN 2026 large scale military exercise came to a close after running for two weeks near the Belarussian border. Separately, a larger exercise (Perkūno Griausmas 2026) is currently underway, which seeks to test Lithuania's ability to shift from peacetime, to a wartime footing. As a result of both major defense initiatives, tensions have risen as both Belarus and Russia react to wartime preparations on their borders.
Against the backdrop of these major exercises, other developments took place over the past few days which have complicated the situation further. On Thursday, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated that Poland had intelligence indicating that Russia will seek to escalate "hybrid warfare" tactics throughout Europe over the next few weeks, to include within Poland. Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys also confirmed that Lithuania had the same intelligence, and concurred with Poland's assessment. Similar concurrences were issued by the Czech Republic, France, Estonia, and Latvia.
-HomeFront-
New York: This morning the United Nations General Assembly began, which notably included appearances by Iranian officials, which were allowed to enter the United States to attend the proceedings at the UN. President Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Araghchi arrived this morning, and so far have been confined to the United Nations building as the United States has not issued visas for their free travel around New York.
Washington D.C. - On Saturday the State Department issued a worldwide travel warning for Americans abroad, warning of increased potential for attacks as the wars in the Middle East and Europe are expected to escalate. The American Embassies in all Middle Eastern nations also issued similar warnings, reemphasizing the risks to Americans abroad.
Analyst Comment: The United States had originally planned to conduct strikes on the Houthis in Yemen, but President Trump decided against the operation at the last minute. This was possibly due to the UN summit today, or more specifically, to prevent the White House from having to deal with another escalation of the war while key leaders and diplomats are located within the US for the summit.
Northeast: This morning ground stops were issued for several airspace sectors throughout the region, after a series of mechanical issues resulted in communications systems going offline. The FAA stated that a contractor working on an Amtrak line accidentally cut into a series of underground communications cables at a critical juncture, which resulted in a loss of radar systems throughout the Newark sector. Newark Liberty, JFK, Teterboro, LaGuardia, and dozens of other airports nationwide experienced ground stops and delays while the cable was fixed.