(BIVN) – The Hawaiʻi County Department of Water Supply is urging its customers to prepare for the approaching Hurricane Fausto, which could impact Big Island weather as a weakened storm next week.
The storm could possibly interrupt electrical service needed to operate Water Supply equipment that delivers drinking water to homes, businesses, and other locations, officials warn.
“Customers who depend on a continuous supply of water should review their personal situations and set aside drinking water ahead of time to meet their essential needs in the event a prolonged power outage disrupts their DWS service,” a water department news release stated.
As of 11 a.m. HST, Hurricane Fausto was 1,840 eat of Hilo, and moving west at 14 mph. Maximum sustained winds have increased to near 85 mph (140 km/h) with higher gusts.
In its most recent forecast discussion, the National Hurricane Center said “while the longer-range forecast brings the center of Fausto generally toward the main Hawaiian Islands, it is too early to discuss any potential impacts.”
The Hawaiʻi County DWS provided the following water preparation tips:
Determine Household Water Needs. Each person should have a minimum of one gallon of water per day for at least 14 days, according to the Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA). Pets and livestock also require water.
Store Water Safely. Use only clean, dedicated, food-grade containers. Wash containers thoroughly with dishwashing soap, sanitize using one teaspoon of mild liquid chlorine bleach per quart of water, and then rinse thoroughly. Fill containers from the tap, leaving as little air as possible. Store in a cool, dark area. Water that has not been commercially bottled should be replaced every six months, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Treat Drinking Water. During an emergency, it may be necessary for DWS to issue a Boil Water Notice due to water quality problems. Customers will be made aware of this via various communication channels. If this is necessary, instructions to treat water can be found on FEMA’s website.
Restrict Water Use. During emergencies, restrict water use to essential uses only such as drinking, cooking, and sanitation. No lawn watering, car/boating washing, etc.
