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Yahoo
21-04-2025
- Yahoo
Hawaii lawmakers still working on torture bill
COURTESY INSTAGRAM Azaeliyah Pili-Ah You : The 11-year-old died in December 2023, and her adoptive parent was charged with manslaughter March 7 in her death 1 /2 COURTESY INSTAGRAM Azaeliyah Pili-Ah You : The 11-year-old died in December 2023, and her adoptive parent was charged with manslaughter March 7 in her death COURTESY PHOTO Geanna Bradley : The 10-year old was found dead at home in Wahiawa on Jan. 18, 2024 ; Honolulu police arrested her foster parents and grandmother on suspicion of murder and other offenses 2 /2 COURTESY PHOTO Geanna Bradley : The 10-year old was found dead at home in Wahiawa on Jan. 18, 2024 ; Honolulu police arrested her foster parents and grandmother on suspicion of murder and other offenses COURTESY INSTAGRAM Azaeliyah Pili-Ah You : The 11-year-old died in December 2023, and her adoptive parent was charged with manslaughter March 7 in her death COURTESY PHOTO Geanna Bradley : The 10-year old was found dead at home in Wahiawa on Jan. 18, 2024 ; Honolulu police arrested her foster parents and grandmother on suspicion of murder and other offenses Recent high-profile cases of child torture and neglect that led to the deaths of two children on Oahu have sharpened the focus for police officers and prosecuting attorneys pushing Hawaii lawmakers to pass a bill that would codify torture and outline punishment. Torture would become a Class A felony, punishable by up to 20 years in prison, under Senate Bill 281, which has drawn a great deal of support in testimony from advocates for tougher laws that distinguish between abuse and torture. The recent cases include starvation, prolonged physical restraint, broken bones and emaciation that led to the deaths of 11-year-old Azaeliyah Pili-Ah You and 10-year-old Geanna Bradley. Currently, there is no 'clear legal definition of torture in the state, even though it should be explicitly prohibited, ' said Honolulu Police Department Capt. Vince Legaspi of the Criminal investigation Division in testimony April 2 to the state House Committee on Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs. 'It is essential to distinguish between abuse and torture, as they differ in severity, and the penalties should reflect that distinction. In 2024 there were several cases involving the torture of children ; however, existing laws provided no framework to charge and penalize the perpetrators appropriately, ' Legaspi said. 'Passing this bill would establish charges that accurately reflect the severity of such acts, ensuring that offenders are held accountable for the magnitude of their crimes.' Benjamin T. Moszkowicz, chief of the Hawaii County Police Department, told lawmakers that too many forms of 'cruel and degrading treatment ' are not adequately addressed by the Hawaii Revised Statutes. Don 't miss out on what 's happening ! Stay in touch with breaking news, as it happens, conveniently in your email inbox. It 's FREE ! Email 28141 Sign Up By clicking to sign up, you agree to Star-Advertiser 's and Google 's and. This form is protected by reCAPTCHA. 'Acts such as starvation, deprivation of food, clothing and water can be challenging to prosecute under existing laws, ' Moszkowicz said. On April 6 the five children's justice centers in Hawaii released data from 2024 that tracked 1, 839 cases of child sex abuse, felony physical abuse, child sex trafficking, internet crimes against children, and children who witnessed a violent crime. While the total of these cases increased by only seven, there was an alarming increase in cases of severe physical abuse. The number of severe cases on Maui increased, more than doubled in West Hawaii and significantly increased on Oahu. Over the five-year period from 2000 to 2024, there were 9, 627 of these cases, reported Friends of the Children's Justice Center of Oahu. Gap in system Honolulu Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Tiffany Kaeo, division chief of the Family Prosecution Division of the Honolulu Prosecutor's Office, told lawmakers she is 'acutely aware of the need for a torture statute in this state.' While the bill was submitted as part of the Honolulu prosecuting attorney's legislative package, there should be 'no misunderstanding that addressing child torture is not law enforcement-centric ' and involves the collaborative efforts of multiple disciplines working in the children's best interest. 'Thirty-six states and District of Columbia criminal codes reference child torture. However, under Hawaii's current statutory language, torture is punished as an aggravating circumstance for murder. Even application of that sentence has been substantially weakened because the prosecution must prove the torture was 'unnecessary, '' read Kaeo's testimony. The measure before lawmakers is 'critical to addressing a gap in the criminal justice system.' 'As prosecutors we need to be able to provide justice to victims who survive torture at the hands of caregivers. That justice must be commensurate with the suffering that those child victims have experienced, ' Kaeo said. 'Currently, when a child dies, a charge of murder or manslaughter is appropriately lodged against a perpetrator.' Child torturers are highly manipulative and extremely skilled at evading detection, testified Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Erika Candelario, team captain of the Domestic Violence and Child Abuse Felony Division. 'Such actions include forced exercise, restraint, forced holds in uncomfortable positions for long periods of times, imprisonment, deprivation of excretory functions, and burning or electrocution, ' Candelarios said. 'Food and water deprivation are increasingly common occurrences in torture-type cases. This is followed by isolation and deprivation of basic necessities which seek to cement a perpetrator's domination and control over the victim's every breath and every move. Because such actions by a perpetrator can be so varied, and injuries so wide-ranging (in a way that does not fit into current definitions ), our response in the law should reflect the appropriate additions to hold that type of offender accountable.' Honolulu Fire Chief Sheldon K. Hau told lawmakers that a torture bill is 'long overdue.' 'As first responders we are often the first to arrive at scenes involving child abuse or neglect, ' Hao said. 'Although we do not investigate or prosecute these crimes, we see them, we carry them and we often cannot forget them. Our role is to provide immediate medical care, rescue and protection. However, when we arrive to find children who have been intentionally harmed, deprived, restrained or threatened, we are left with the emotional and moral weight of what we witnessed. We are the ones who carry those children out of dangerous homes. We are the ones who try to stabilize their injuries. We are the ones who must return to our stations and our families and try to process what no one should ever have to see.' Abuse underreported Child & Family Service CEO Amanda Pump told the Honolulu Star-Advertiser that parental struggles play a key role in Hawaii's child abuse cases, which she says are underreported. Those factors include Hawaii's high cost of living, a generational decline in face-to-face communications and interactions, generational abuse and other factors, she said. 'We learn to communicate less, we have less interactions face to face and we need those interactions. Babies need those interactions. … They need to be held, they need to hear their parents' voices. I do think technology limits parents' ability to do that.' Inflation and the high cost of living are 'really limiting the time we get to spend with our children, ' she said. 'What quality of time or energy do you have left (at the end of the day )? There is a lot that families are going through nowadays, ' Pump said. Pump said the state's most recent report on child abuse and neglect, from 2023, showed an increase in the volume of calls, notably on Oahu and in Hilo. Eighteen percent of those were confirmed for child abuse and neglect, and three-quarters of those cases involved parents who could not handle the parenting responsibility, she said. 'If we poured more attention and resources into prevention, we can help more parents not to abuse and neglect their children, ' said Pump, noting that potential prevention frameworks can be embedded in existing contracts with service providers. 'We need to be strengthening communities.' The highest number of calls the state is getting are from parents with children less than a year old, she said. Fifty-seven percent of the abusers are women, as women are the primary caregivers, and their ages range between 30 and 39. 2 recent cases The two cases in the headlines on Oahu this year involved deaths in Kahuku and Wahiawa. On March 7 a, Sina Pili, was arrested and charged with manslaughter for torturing and neglecting her 11-year-old adopted daughter, who died in December 2023. The victim, Azaeliyah Pili-Ah You, had extensive bruising, deep enough to penetrate skin. She had multiple abrasions to her face, head, neck, chest, back, arms, hands and legs. She was bitten and strangled, and had two broken ribs and a scalp hemorrhage. Pili-Ah You's body tested positive for COVID-19, pneumonia and the flu, according to HPD. She was adopted by Sina Pili and her husband two months before she died. Sina Pili is charged with manslaughter, endangering the welfare of a minor and persistent nonsupport. In the other case, was found dead in the Wahiawa home of her foster parents in January 2024, bound with duct tape, severely injured and starved. A medical examiner's report said Bradley died of 'multiple effects of prolonged child abuse and neglect ' and 'starvation, blunt force injuries due to multiple assaults, prolonged physical restraint and immobilization, pneumonia and medical neglect.' Police, firefighters and Honolulu Emergency Medical Services paramedics found Bradley's body Jan. 18, 2024, after they responded to a 911 call from the home. Her foster parents and grandmother were charged with murder in February 2024, nearly a month after the child's lifeless body was found emaciated and bruised, with broken teeth, open sores and missing part of her nose. Brandy Kanani Blas, 35 ; her husband, Thomas Adam Blas Sr., 40 ; and Debra D. Geron, 67, were arrested at their home at 33 Karsten Drive in Wahiawa. All three face charges of second-degree murder, two counts of kidnapping and two counts of first-degree unlawful imprisonment. The Blases were charged with one count of endangering the welfare of a minor, and Brandy Blas and Geron were charged with one count of first-degree hindering prosecution.
Yahoo
03-04-2025
- Yahoo
Grand jury indicts Hilo man accused in fatal stabbing
COURTESY HAWAII COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT Keoni Peter Tosie Brown 1 /2 COURTESY HAWAII COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT Keoni Peter Tosie Brown JOHN BURNETT / HAWAII TRIBUNE-HERALD According to police, the driveway of this Olu Street home in Hilo was where the homeowner, 81-year-old Lola Loebl, was stabbed to death Saturday morning. 2 /2 JOHN BURNETT / HAWAII TRIBUNE-HERALD According to police, the driveway of this Olu Street home in Hilo was where the homeowner, 81-year-old Lola Loebl, was stabbed to death Saturday morning. COURTESY HAWAII COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT Keoni Peter Tosie Brown JOHN BURNETT / HAWAII TRIBUNE-HERALD According to police, the driveway of this Olu Street home in Hilo was where the homeowner, 81-year-old Lola Loebl, was stabbed to death Saturday morning. A Hawaii County grand jury Wednesday indicted Keoni Peter Tosie Brown of Hilo on charges of second-degree murder in the stabbing death of his 81-year-old neighbor and first-degree terroristic threatening of a 38-year-old woman who confronted him. The 30-year-old man, if convicted, could be sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. Brown could be subject to an extended term of imprisonment in two different ways, the indictment shows. On Count 1, second-degree murder in the stabbing death of his 81-year-old neighbor Lola Loebl, Brown could be sentenced as an offender against the elderly in that the victim is 60 years of age or older, according to Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 707. An extended term for second-degree murder, which has a term of life with the possibility of parole, could be extended to life without the possibility of parole. If convicted of murder and first-degree terroristic threatening, he also could be subject to an extended term for two or more felonies, according to HRS Sec. 706-662 (4 ). Don 't miss out on what 's happening ! Stay in touch with breaking news, as it happens, conveniently in your email inbox. It 's FREE ! Email 28141 Sign Up By clicking to sign up, you agree to Star-Advertiser 's and Google 's and. This form is protected by reCAPTCHA. Brown appeared, cuffed and shackled in orange prison garb, in Hilo District Court for a 2 p.m. preliminary hearing, but the hearing was not required due to the indictment. Brown, already in custody, was served with the grand jury bench warrant, which set bail at $2.02 million and ordered him to have no contact with the witness and remain more than 100 yards from the witness and Loebl's homes. Brown was arrested 7 :30 p.m. Saturday after the 38-year-old neighbor called 911. Samantha Iopa said she witnessed the stabbing of Loebl, who lived across the street from her at 257 Olu St., at about 7 :15 a.m. Saturday, court documents indicate. She said she saw Brown hold Loebl with one arm and stab her in the mouth, leaving the knife there. Iopa said she ran to confront Brown, who then fled to the garage on the property next door to Loebl's home. When the 38-year-old woman went back outside, Brown had removed the knife from Loebl's mouth and threatened her, she told police. She noted Brown had changed his clothes, which were later found on the property where he lives. Police also recovered a knife. Brown lives in a shipping container on the property at 261 Olu St.
Yahoo
30-03-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Key Hawaii Republicans, voters mixed on Trump
COURTESY STATE OF HAWAII State Reps. Diamond Garcia and Kanani Souza COURTESY STATE OF HAWAII State Reps. Diamond Garcia and Kanani Souza Key Hawaii Republicans offered differing viewsw of President Donald Trump three months into his second term, with some continuing their full support while others are hearing from constituents who regret voting for him. State House Minority Floor Leader Diamond Garcia (Ewa-Kapolei ) continues to back Trump and his administration's efforts to slash spending and reduce the federal workforce through his new, unofficial Department of Government Efficiency, arguing both are long overdue. 'The vast majority of the American people support the efforts of DOGE and what they're doing, ' Garcia said. 'The American people want accountability.' Assistant Minority Leader Kanani Souza, like Garcia and other House and Senate Republicans, also represents a West Oahu district, Kapolei-Makakilo. But she's heard differently from her constituents, including fears about Trump's elimination of federal programs aimed at supporting diversity, equity and inclusion, and his often-conflicting messages about possible cuts to programs including Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid and food stamps. Souza said some people are 'concerned about funding cuts for Native Hawaiian programs.' Don 't miss out on what 's happening ! Stay in touch with breaking news, as it happens, conveniently in your email inbox. It 's FREE ! Email 28141 Sign Up By clicking to sign up, you agree to Star-Advertiser 's and Google 's and. This form is protected by reCAPTCHA. 'A lot of my constituents, both sides of the aisle, are concerned with whether Social Security will be cut in the future. A lot of what we're seeing is a wait-and-see scenario, ' she said. Souza and Garcia represent different ends of Hawaii Republican ideology in the nine-member Republican House caucus and three-member Senate Republican caucus. House Minority Whip Elijah Pierick, who represents the West Side district of Royal Kunia-Waipahu-Honouliuli, agrees with Garcia that America should focus on its own citizens rather than send aid to foreign countries, sometimes for programs that 'mainstream ' Americans may not support. 'I think our U.S. citizens in our state are much more important to be focused on than people in every other country, ' Pierick said. Unlike Souza's constituents, Garcia said voters in his district tell him they like Trump's policies after years of feeling 'left behind.' Trump's predecessors, Garcia said, 'were focusing on all of these ridiculous other things like climate change and gender issues versus the cost of living. That's why West Oahu has pretty much flipped red.' 'People were just frustrated that this is what the government was focusing on, not on lowering the cost of living, not on bringing Hawaiians back to Hawaii from the mainland.' Similarly, Assistant House Minority Leader David Alcos III (Ocean Pointe-Barbers Point ) said he and his constituents share conservative values and their confidence in Trump's decision making. 'While I acknowledge that there are differing opinions, the overwhelming majority I encounter are supportive of President Trump, ' he wrote in a text to the Honolulu Star-Advertiser. 'My constituents feel that for the first time in a long while, their voices are being heard, and they see real action being taken on the issues that matter to them. 'Many have also expressed their support for the work being done by Elon Musk, particularly regarding a wasteful overspending by the government, and savings of our taxpayers' money.' But Souza has noticed what she calls a 'shift ' toward common ground between some Republican and Democratic voters over their concerns for Trump's actions. 'I have some other constituents who are telling me, 'I voted for President Trump and I'm not happy with what I'm seeing, '' she said. 'This is a very different scenario than maybe even six months ago or eight months ago when I was campaigning. It was very polarized.' Under the new administration in Washington, the Legislature now has to look to 'forecasting our needs at the state level in case some of these programs are cut from (federal ) funding, ' Souza said. Pierick trusts Trump's decision making and thinks Hawaii should rely less on federally funded programs. 'I don't think we should feed anybody that's not working as an adult that's able to work, ' Pierick said. 'Everybody that's getting these free handouts needs to go to work, get a job, use a paycheck to buy their own food. Hawaii needs to grow up and not have a baby mentality of 'We need more resources.' We need to be more self sufficient.' Tamara McKay, chair of the Hawaii Republican Party, called the reaction among local Republicans to Trump's first months in office 'definitely mixed, of course.' But she believes in the overall goals of Trump and his administration, even if it means reduced funding for Hawaii's nonprofit organizations, education and other programs, including a reduced federal workforce across the islands. 'Once he cleans house, we will be able to move forward in a healthy way for the country, ' McKay said. 'A lot of people are saying they want DOGE to come to Hawaii because they feel the level of corruption in the state of Hawaii is out of control. I agree. We need a good enema. It's not exclusive to one party. Our whole state needs to be reset.' She wants the Trump administration to investigate Hawaii's nonprofit organizations, the state Office of Elections, state Department of Education and the federal veterans affairs and Social Security agencies in how they operate and spend money. At the same time, McKay said she understands the ongoing questions and concerns over how Musk has been operating DOGE. 'I agree there is some frustration and lack of transparency, ' she said. 'I can see both sides. In some cases, it's too fast and not strategic and using a hatchet approach. With some of the programs (that were cut ), I have to agree it was too much too soon. But I do believe you're going to see in the next couple of months that it's going to get better.' While Trump promised to end the wars in Gaza and Ukraine immediately, as well as turn around the U.S. economy, McKay said he promised instant results he could not deliver on. 'We love Trump. We love Trump, ' she said. 'But sometimes it's unrealistic to say the economy's going to get better on Day One. He was not being realistic.' House Minority Leader Lauren Matsumoto (Mililani-Waipio Acres-Mililani Mauka ) said she's more focused on state issues than paying attention to every Trump administration headline coming out of Washington on a daily basis. But constituents still turn to her office seeking explanations about the effects of the president's actions, especially his recent executive order to close the U.S. Department of Education and what it means for education in Hawaii. Some constituents have reached out to Matsumoto, mistakenly believing that 'I talk to Trump every week because they want to know, 'What is Trump thinking about this or that ?' I say, 'I know just as much as you.'' Asked to characterize constituents' reaction to Trump so far, Matsumoto said, 'We get a mix of calls from people who are fearful of what's going to be happening next. … I do think the media, especially the national media, stirs up fears that may not be warranted. So they're hearing mixed messages about what the media are saying.' Overall, Matsumoto's waiting to see how Trump's early actions affect Hawaii and the rest of the country. 'Maybe a shake-up is what needs to happen, ' she said. '… No matter what side you're on, people can admit that there's a need for changes. Change is not always easy, and sometimes there will be changes that people will have to reverse or fix.' As for now, Matsumoto said, 'There's so much we don't know, and so much is speculation. But as a state, we need to take a deep-dive look at what we're spending and ensure we have a responsible government. 'I'm glad these conversations are coming to light.' 20 Comments By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our. Having trouble with comments ? .
Yahoo
31-01-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Oahu remains under flash flood warning as storm slams state
JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @ Cars traverse flood waters, today, in Honolulu. A flash flood warning is in effect for all of Oahu through 2 p.m. 1 /5 JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @ Cars traverse flood waters, today, in Honolulu. A flash flood warning is in effect for all of Oahu through 2 p.m. GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @ A woman cleared out floodwater from a business in downtown Honolulu, today. 2 /5 GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @ A woman cleared out floodwater from a business in downtown Honolulu, today. JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @ A woman crosses South King Street in the rain, today, in Honolulu. A flash flood warning is in effect for all of Oahu through 2 p.m. 3 /5 JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @ A woman crosses South King Street in the rain, today, in Honolulu. A flash flood warning is in effect for all of Oahu through 2 p.m. JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @ Cars traverse flood waters, today, in Honolulu. A flash flood warning is in effect for all of Oahu through 2 p.m. 4 /5 JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @ Cars traverse flood waters, today, in Honolulu. A flash flood warning is in effect for all of Oahu through 2 p.m. COURTESY NOAA Radar this morning shows areas of moisture over Hawaii. 5 /5 COURTESY NOAA Radar this morning shows areas of moisture over Hawaii. JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @ Cars traverse flood waters, today, in Honolulu. A flash flood warning is in effect for all of Oahu through 2 p.m. GEORGE F. LEE / GLEE @ A woman cleared out floodwater from a business in downtown Honolulu, today. JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @ A woman crosses South King Street in the rain, today, in Honolulu. A flash flood warning is in effect for all of Oahu through 2 p.m. JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @ Cars traverse flood waters, today, in Honolulu. A flash flood warning is in effect for all of Oahu through 2 p.m. COURTESY NOAA Radar this morning shows areas of moisture over Hawaii. UPDATE : 4 :45 p.m. The National Weather Service has extended the flash flood warning for the island of Oahu to 8 p.m. 'At 4 :33 p.m., radar indicated heavy rain moving over the southeastern half of Oahu, with the heaviest rain rates up to 3 inches per hour, ' the updated warning said. 'Streams along windward Oahu have been showing rises in water levels. Flash flooding is ongoing.' Weather officials warn of flooding in drainages, streams, rivers, roads, properties and other low-lying areas. Public road closures are possible in some areas. Landslides are possible in steep terrain. The NWS advises staying away from streams, drainage ditches and low-lying areas prone to flooding. The warning is in place for the entire island of Oahu. At about 4 :05 p.m., officials from the Hawaii Department of Transportation reported a tree overhanging Pali Highway at Waokanaka, in the Kailua-bound right lane, and hitting cars. Drivers are advised to avoid the right lane. Don 't miss out on what 's happening ! Stay in touch with breaking news, as it happens, conveniently in your email inbox. It 's FREE ! Email 28141 Sign Up By clicking to sign up, you agree to Star-Advertiser 's and Google 's and. This form is protected by reCAPTCHA. Earlier today, city officials reproted that Kapaa Quarry Road near Mokapu Boulevard is closed due to flooding. The NWS has also extended a flood advisory for the island of Maui to 7 :15 p.m. Some locations that will experience flooding include Kaupo, Kipahulu, Hana, Haleakala National Park and Hamoa. 1 :50 p.m. The National Weather Service has extended the flash flood warning for Oahu until 5 p.m. today. 'At 1 :36 p.m., radar indicated heavy rain has temporarily subsided over Oahu. Additional redevelopment is expected to move quickly over Oahu from the south with rain rates up to 2 inches per hour, ' the updated warning said. Flash flooding is ongoing over roads across the island, forecasters said. NWS said flooding was reported on Ft. Weaver Road at Aekai Place at about 12 :24 p.m. The entire state remains under a flash flood watch until Friday afternoon and a high wind warning until noon Friday with winds of at least 40 mph, with gusts over 60 mph. 12 :55 p.m. Hawaii Kai and Kalama Valley in East Oahu are under a severe thunderstorm warning until 1 :15 p.m. 'At 12 :40 p.m., a severe thunderstorm was located over Koko Crater, moving northeast at 35 mph toward Makapuu, ' the National Weather Service said. Forecasters said 60 mph wind gusts are possible. 'Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees, ' they said. 12 :30 p.m. There are a number of weather-related road closures around the state :—Kapaa Quarry Place to Mokapu Boulevard is closed due to flooding.—Kokee Road on Kauai is closed at mile post 11.5 and 13 due to fallen trees.—The two left lanes of Nimitz Highway westbound are closed after River Street due to flooding. A stalled vehicle was also reported in one of the flooded lanes. Noon The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Oahu until 12 :15 p.m. At 11 :41 a.m., a severe thunderstorm was located over Waimanalo and Hawaii Kai, moving northeast at 35 mph. Wind gusts of up to 60 mph are possible Weather officials warn of possible damage to roofs, siding and trees. Locations affected include Kaneohe Marine Base, Hawaii Kai, Waimanalo, Kailua, Maunawili, Koko Crater, Waialae Iki, Bellows Air Force Station, Waialae, Hanauma Bay, Kalama Valley and Sandy Beach. 'For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building, ' said NWS in the warning. Radar and automated rain gauges at 11 :58 a.m. showed heavy rain continuing to fall over the eastern portion of Oahu. Radar also indicated moderate to heavy showers developing and moving quickly over Oahu from the south. Rain was falling at a rate of up to 3 inches per hour. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly. City officials said the Honolulu Zoo in Waikiki closed this morning due to the heavy rains, which resulted in flooded walkways. The zoo is expected to remain closed for the rest of the day. As of 11 :20 a.m. play was suspended until further notice at the city's six municipal golf courses due to heavy rains and strong winds. The Honolulu Department of Parks & Recreation says city pools will close if there is thunder and heavy rain. The Mark Takai Veterans Memorial Aquatics Center is closed today. Numerous city parks are already closed to the public, including the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Ho 'omaluhia Botanical Garden, Wahiawa Botanical Garden, Koko Crater Botanical Garden, Patsy T. Mink Central Oahu Regional Park and Hans L'Orange Neighborhood Park. In Maui County, the state Department of Education closed all public schools on Maui, Molokai and Lanai early at 11 :45 a.m. today after consulting with the Maui Emergency Management Agency. Arrangements were being made for buses to transport students who ride the school bus to /from school, DOE officials said. They said a decision will be made by 6 p.m. today regarding school closures on Friday. On Kauai, emergency officials 'strongly advise the public to avoid outdoor activities in flood-prone areas like roadways, hiking trails, rivers /streams, and low-lying areas.' The Kauai Department of Water has issued a conservation request for Hanalei, Wainiha and Haena until further notice due to an electrical power outage. Customers are advised to limit water use to essential needs only, such as drinking, cooking, and sanitation, to avoid a full water service outage. A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for Honolulu and Maui counties, effective until 6 p.m. today. The watch includes the cities of Honolulu, Kahului, Kaunakakai and Lanai City. 'A severe thunderstorm watch means conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area, ' said NWS. 'Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings.' Severe thunderstorms can produce damaging winds of 58 mph or higher, or destructive hail the size of quarters or larger. The thunderstorm watch includes adjacent coastal waters, including all of the channels and Maalaea Bay. 11 :40 a.m. The National Weather Service issued a special weather statement saying strong thunderstorms will affect Oahu through noon today. At 11 :25 a.m., Doppler radar was tracking strong thunderstorms along a line extending from near Kaneohe Marine Base to 8 miles south of Palolo. Movement was northeast at 40 mph and will move over east Honolulu, Kailua and Waimanalo through noon. Locations impacted include Waimanalo, Kaneohe Marine Base, Hawaii Kai, Palolo, Kailua, Manoa, Maunawili, Kaneohe, Koko Crater, Kalama Valley, Aina Haina, Kaimuki, Hawaii Loa Ridge, Diamond Head, Waialae Iki, Hanauma Bay, Sandy Beach, Bellows Air Force Station, Waialae and Makapuu Point. 'If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building, ' the NWS said. wind gusts up to 50 mph are possible The NWS, meanwhile, has canceled the flood advisory for Hawaii island. 11 :05 a.m. A flash flood warning has been posted for Oahu through 2 p.m. today. Radar and rain gauges at 11 :03 a.m. showed heavy rain falling over the entire island of Oahu at a rate of up to 3 inches per hour, the NWS said. 'Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly, ' the NWS said in a bulletin. 10 :45 a.m. The flood advisory for the island of Oahu has been extended to 1 :30 p.m. At 10 :20 a.m., radar indicated moderate to heavy showers developing and moving quickly over Oahu from the south, with rain rates of 1 to 3 inches per hour. Some locations that will experience flooding include Honolulu, Waipio, Mililani, Pearl City, Waikele, Wahiawa, Wheeler Field, Waipahu, Aiea, Kunia, Halawa, Waiahole, Waikane, Schofield Barracks, Salt Lake, Kahaluu, Moanalua, Ahuimanu, Iroquois Point and Ewa Beach. A flood advisory for the island of Hawaii has been extended until 1 p.m. At 9 :38 a.m., showers have temporarily diminished although radar continues to indicate moderate to heavy showers developing and moving quickly over the southeast facing slopes of Kau, Puna and South Hilo Districts with rain rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour. Some locations that will experience flooding include Hilo, Hawaiian Paradise Park, Volcano, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Glenwood, Mountain View, Wood Valley, Hawaiian Acres, Pahala, Orchidlands Estates, Keaau, Pahoa, Punaluu Beach, Kawa Flats, Papaikou, Naalehu, Pepeekeo, Fern Forest and Eden Roc. Weather officials advise the public to stay away from streams, drainage ditches, and low-lying areas prone to flooding. On Maui, Haleakala National Park closed at 10 a.m. due to worsening conditions, and is expected to remain closed through at least noon on Friday, according to a news release. The National Weather Service, meanwhile, has canceled the severe thunderstorm watch for Kauai. A flood watch is in effect for all Hawaiian islands until 6 p.m. Friday. 9 :50 a.m. The flood advisory for the island of Kauai has been canceled. However, the flood advisory for Hawaii island has been extended through 1 p.m. Radar at 9 :38 a.m. showed temporarily eased, but still moderate to heavy showers developing and moving swiftly over the southeast slopes of Kau, Puna and south Hilo districts with rain rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour, the NWS said. Some locations that will experience flooding include Hilo, Hawaiian Paradise Park, Volcano, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Glenwood, Mountain View, Wood Valley, Hawaiian Acres, Pahala, Orchidlands Estates, Keaau, Pahoa, Punaluu Beach, Kawa Flats, Papaikou, Naalehu, Pepeekeo, Fern Forest and Eden Roc. 8 :50 a.m. The island of Kauai is under a severe thunderstorm watch as a large storm system begins to hit the state. 'A severe thunderstorm watch means conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible warnings, ' the National Weather Service advisory says. Severe thunderstorms produce damaging winds of 58 mph or higher or destructive hail the size of quarters of larger, according to forecasters. An earlier thunderstorm warning for Kauai has expired. At 1 a.m., a thunderstorm wind gust of 58 mph was recorded in Lihue, NWS said. 7 :50 a.m. The flood advisory for the island of Kauai has been extended through 10 :45 a.m. today. Radar at 7 :21 a.m. showed moderate to heavy showers developing and moving over Kauai from the south, with rain falling at rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour, the NWS said. Water levels are elevated in streams across much of the island and runoff affecting low-lying areas is possible. Some locations that will experience flooding include Lihue, Kapaa, Kalaheo, Kekaha, Princeville, Kilauea, North Fork Wailua Trails, Alakai Swamp Trails, Lawai, Omao, Kokee State Park, Wailua Homesteads, Hanalei, Hanapepe, Wainiha, Na Pali State Park, Koloa, Haena, Waimea and Wailua. 7 :15 a.m. A Hawaiian Airlines flight from Honolulu to Lihue was canceled today due to the weather. A passenger on the plane, flight HA133, said the captain initially announced a delay due to being unable to land at Lihue Airport. Hawaiian Airlines flight HA134 from Lihue to Honolulu was also canceled. Hawaiian Airlines is offering to customers affected by the weather. 7 a.m. The flood advisory for Hawaii island has been extended through 10 a.m. Radar at 6 :40 a.m. showed moderate to heavy showers developing and moving quickly over the southeast-facing slopes of Kau, Puna and south Hilo districts, according to the NWS. Rain was falling at a rate of 1 to 2 inches per hour. 6 :45 a.m. A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for the island of Kauai. At 6 :42 a.m., radar showed a severe thunderstorm was located 6 miles south of Eleele, moving northeast at 40 mph and headed toward southeast Kauai. In addition to wind gusts up to 60 mph, the National Weather Service said to remain alert for possible tornadoes. 'Tornadoes can develop quickly from severe thunderstorms. If you spot a tornado go at once into the basement or small central room in a sturdy structure, ' weather officials said. Locations affected by the warning include Lihue, Anahola, Wailua, Hanapepe, Omao, North Fork Wailua Trails, Koloa, Moloaa, Kapaa, Lawai, Wailua Homesteads and Kalaheo. PREVIOUS COVERAGE The National Weather Service has issued multiple warnings and advisories as a powerful storm system moves through the islands, bringing the threat of severe thunderstorms, damaging winds and flash flooding through Friday. A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for Kauai and its adjacent coastal waters until noon today, with the potential for damaging winds over 58 mph and hail the size of quarters or larger. A high wind warning remains active for Oahu, Kauai and Niihau until noon Friday, with sustained winds of 20 to 35 mph and gusts over 60 mph that could bring down trees and power lines. Maui County also came under a high wind warning at 6 a.m. Additionally, flood advisories have been issued for Kauai and Hawaii island due to excessive rainfall. On Kauai, heavy showers are moving in from the south, with rainfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour, leading to rising stream levels and minor flooding in low-lying areas. The advisory remains in effect until 7 :45 a.m. today but may be extended if conditions persist. On Hawaii island, heavy rain is soaking the Ka 'u, Puna and South Hilo districts, with a flood advisory in effect until 7 a.m. today. A flood watch is in place for all Hawaiian Islands through 6 p.m. Friday, as the approaching cold front brings the potential for widespread flash flooding and thunderstorms. Weather officials say damaging winds could knock down trees and power lines and cause structural damage, particularly on Oahu, Kauai and Niihau. Flash flooding could lead to road closures, urban runoff and dangerous conditions in streams and low-lying areas. Residents and visitors are urged to secure loose outdoor items, stay indoors if possible and avoid driving through flooded roads. Boaters and mariners should take extra caution, as hazardous conditions are expected in coastal waters. 26 Comments By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. 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Yahoo
29-01-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
‘Potent' storm system threatens to wallop Hawaiian islands
COURTESY NOAA This color-enhanced radar image shows a strong storm system approaching Hawaii from the northwest. All islands are under a flood watch and high wind watch from Wednesday night and Thursday. COURTESY NOAA This color-enhanced radar image shows a strong storm system approaching Hawaii from the northwest. All islands are under a flood watch and high wind watch from Wednesday night and Thursday. The National Weather Service warns that a 'potent winter storm system will bring a multi-faceted threat for significant weather hazards ' to all Hawaiian islands starting Wednesday night. The threats include heavy rain, flash flooding, damaging winds, severe thunderstorms on all islands, and snow and ice on Hawaii island summits, according to weather service forecasters in Honolulu. 'Damaging gradient and downslope winds will be possible, particularly to the north and northeast of the terrain from late Wednesday night through Friday, especially over the smaller islands, ' NWS said in a special weather statement. 'In addition, heavy rain capable of producing flash flooding is expected to affect the entire island chain during this time.' The public is urged to monitor forecasts, and to be prepared should flash flood warnings be issued. The weather service today issued :—A flash flood watch for all islands from Wednesday evening through Friday morning. 'Flood prone roads and other low lying areas may be closed due to elevated runoff and overflowing streams. Urban areas may receive more significant flooding and property damage due to rapid runoff.' Don 't miss out on what 's happening ! Stay in touch with breaking news, as it happens, conveniently in your email inbox. It 's FREE ! Email 28141 Sign Up By clicking to sign up, you agree to Star-Advertiser 's and Google 's and. This form is protected by reCAPTCHA.—A high wind watch for all islands Wednesday evening until Thursday night with southwest winds 20 to 35 mph with possible gusts up to 55 mph. 'Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are possible. Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.' Forecasters said the strongest winds will likely be across windward and mauka areas of Oahu and Kauai, but parts of Maui County and the Big Island could also see strong winds.—A winter storm watch for Hawaii island summits late Wednesday night through Friday morning. 'A light glaze of ice is also possible on wet surfaces as temperatures drop below freezing.'—A gale watch for Kauai waters from Wednesday evening to Thursday afternoon due to strong winds, which can cause hazardous seas and reduce visibility for boats. The storm system threatening Hawaii comes from an unusually strong low pressure system northwest of the state that will pass a couple hundred miles north of Kauai on Thursday, then drag a cold front east through the islands through Friday, according to the weather service. 'Intense rainfall rates are likely especially over the typically drier south and southwest facing slopes, where the greatest rainfall totals are expected, ' forecasters said. 'Finally, there is an enhanced risk of strong to severe thunderstorms with the primary threat expected to be damaging wind gusts, particularly over the smaller islands.' Kauai County officials are urging residents to stay vigilant and avoid outdoor activities in flood-prone areas such as hiking trails, rivers, streams, and low-lying areas. NWS officials urge residents to take precautions to protect property before the storm hits, and to tie down loose objects or move them to a sheltered location. Hawaiian Electric officials said the company was monitoring the weather and encouraged residents to check their emergency preparations and prepare for the possibility of power outages. They said those preparations should include :—Checking emergency equipment such as flashlights, generators, battery-operated radios, light sticks, and lanterns to be sure they are operational.—Buying extra batteries.—Having a battery-powered radio on hand to listen for updates on the weather conditions.—Making sure portable generators are in a well-ventilated area outside the home, and carefully follow all instructions in the manufacturer's manual.—Turning refrigerators and freezers to their coldest settings in case power goes out.—Turning off and unplugging any unnecessary electrical equipment, especially sensitive electronics in case of a power outage.—And assume downed power lines are energized and dangerous, and stay at least 30 feet or more away from all power lines.———More Hawaiian Electric preparation and safety tips are available at. 7 Comments By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our. Having trouble with comments ? .
