The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) announced on April 8 that it is continuing its preparations for the April severe weather system, while also providing an update on repairs following the March Kona low storms. On O‘ahu, HDOT crews have been clearing streams, culverts, and drains from Kahalu‘u to Kahuku and toward Hale‘iwa. Water filter socks are being placed around debris stored at Weed Circle to prevent runoff from reaching roads, with additional socks positioned along Kamehameha Highway near Waimea Bay to direct water away from a recent slope stabilization site.
HDOT said that on neighboring islands, crews are completing pre-storm checklists and preparing for round-the-clock response as needed. At 4:30 p.m., Moloka‘i crews reported that Kamehameha V Highway was closed between mile posts 6 and 10 due to water and rocks blocking the roadway; work is underway to clear the area with reopening expected soon.
Repairs on O‘ahu related to damage from the March Kona low events were paused Wednesday, April 8 due to weather conditions but will resume when it is safe for workers. HDOT stated it will continue updating the public about storm impacts at state facilities through its website.
According to the official website, HDOT manages facilities including multiple airports for domestic and international carriers, commercial harbors, and a statewide highway system. The department operates as part of Hawaii’s executive branch government according to its official website. It oversees operations across all six major Hawaiian islands with responsibility for eleven commercial service airports, four general aviation airports, nine commercial harbors, and approximately 2,450 lane miles of highways according to HDOT.
The department collaborates with federal agencies such as the Federal Aviation Administration, U.S. Coast Guard, Federal Highway Administration as well as county planning departments according to its official website. Its mission is focused on delivering a safe and efficient transportation system that supports mobility for people and goods while fostering economic growth as stated by HDOT.
HDOT encourages residents seeking updates or preparedness information during this period of severe weather activity to visit https://hidot.hawaii.gov/weather-traffic/ or ready.hawaii.gov.