HILO, Hawaii – Between government briefings at the Hawaii County Civil Defense emergency operations center in Hilo, acting administrator Ed Teixeira takes a moment to provide an update on the preparations underway as Hurricane Madeline approaches.

At the time of this interview, a Hurricane Warning had just been issued for the County of Hawaii, but the 11 a.m. National Weather Service update had not yet been released.

Teixeira said the county will be making some important decision in the next few hours and we will know more about possible closures early this evening.

For now, emergency officials are asking the public to be StormReady.

• Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit. Include a flashlight with fresh batteries, cash, first aid supplies, and any medication or supplies specific to you or your family members.
• Plan how to communicate with family members. Create an evacuation plan for your household. Bring in or secure outdoor furniture and other items that could blow away. Keep your vehicle fueled and cell phone charged.
• To help preserve water availability through the storm, the Department of Water Supply asks customers to minimize non-essential use of water, such as irrigation.