Hawaii storm update: what to do if your island vacation is at risk

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• Check flight status and flexible rebooking options
• Communicate with lodging and tour operators
• Understand travel insurance and payment protections
• Before you leave: prepare an emergency travel kit
• Monitor official weather and local alerts
• If you are already in Hawaii: immediate steps to stay safe
  • Prioritize shelter and safety
  • Keep communication lines open
• Transportation and ground travel during storms
• Health considerations and local services
• How to handle refunds and change requests
• Practical tips for travelers who decide to stay
• Resources to follow right now

Storm systems heading toward Hawaii can change plans fast. Travelers with flights, hotels, or activities booked should act now. This guide explains what to check, who to contact, and how to stay safe if weather threatens your island trip.

Check flight status and flexible rebooking options

Airlines often revise schedules before storms. Confirm your flight several times and keep tickets handy.

• Contact your airline or visit its website for the latest updates.
• Look for waivers that allow free changes or refunds due to severe weather.
• Ask about standby lists and alternative routing if your flight is canceled.
• Retain receipts and confirmations to support reimbursement claims.

Communicate with lodging and tour operators

Hotels, vacation rentals, and tour companies change plans during storms.

• Call or message your hotel to ask about cancellation or relocation policies.
• Confirm if pools, beaches, and scheduled activities will operate.
• Request written confirmation of any policy exceptions for insurance claims.
• If staying in short-term rentals, connect with the host for local guidance.

Understand travel insurance and payment protections

Travel insurance can cover weather cancellations, but policies vary widely.

• Review your policy for coverage of storms, evacuation, and trip interruption.
• Credit card trip protections may offer refunds or credits. Check terms.
• Keep documentation of extra expenses like hotels, food, and transport.
• File claims promptly and follow insurer instructions closely.

Before you leave: prepare an emergency travel kit

Packing smart helps if services are limited on arrival.

• Include a flashlight, portable charger, and extra batteries.
• Pack basic first-aid supplies and any prescription medications.
• Bring reusable water bottles and nonperishable snacks.
• Add copies of travel documents and digital backups.

Monitor official weather and local alerts

Get information from trusted sources to track the storm’s path and hazards.

• Watch the National Weather Service and NOAA updates for Hawaii.
• Sign up for local emergency alerts from county agencies.
• Follow updates from Hawaii County, Maui County, City and County of Honolulu, and Kauai officials.
• Check surf advisories and marine warnings if your plans include the coast.

If you are already in Hawaii: immediate steps to stay safe

Prioritize shelter and safety

When conditions worsen, find secure shelter and avoid high-risk areas.

• Move away from shorelines during high surf or storm surge warnings.
• Avoid driving through flooded roads. Turn around, don’t drown.
• Follow evacuation orders without delay.

Keep communication lines open

Maintain contact with loved ones and local authorities.

• Share your location and plans with family or your host.
• Use text messages when voice networks are congested.
• Seek updates from hotel staff and local emergency management.

Transportation and ground travel during storms

Roads, ports, and inter-island flights may close. Expect delays.

• Check rental car return policies and ask about storm-related fees.
• Public transport schedules may be suspended. Plan alternatives.
• Allow extra travel time and avoid nonessential trips during heavy rain.

Health considerations and local services

Storms can disrupt utilities and medical care. Be ready for limited services.

• Bring enough medication for several extra days.
• Locate the nearest hospital or urgent care for your lodging area.
• Pack insect repellent—standing water increases mosquitoes.

How to handle refunds and change requests

Document every change or expense related to weather disruptions.

• Keep screenshots of canceled bookings and official advisories.
• Request written confirmations from companies about refunds.
• Use dispute channels with banks or travel platforms if needed.

Practical tips for travelers who decide to stay

If your plans remain, take steps to reduce risk and stay comfortable.

• Choose accommodations built to withstand storms.
• Store electronics and valuables above floor level in case of flooding.
• Stay informed about potable water and boil-water notices.

Resources to follow right now

• National Weather Service Hawaii updates for watches and warnings.
• NOAA marine and surf advisories for coastal hazards.
• Local county emergency management pages for shelter locations.