Honolulu Activates Emergency Shelters Ahead of Third Storm

Shelters open as Oahu braces for heavy rain, flash flooding, and severe weather.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 8:25pm

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of gray, blue, and green, depicting a stormy sky looming over the cityscape of Honolulu. The dramatic clouds and dramatic lighting convey the scale and power of the approaching weather system, dwarfing the physical structures below.As Honolulu braces for a third major storm, the city's emergency shelters stand ready to provide a safe haven for residents and visitors.Honolulu Today

As Oahu prepares for the potential impacts of a third Kona low weather system, the City and County of Honolulu has announced that emergency shelters will open on Wednesday. These shelters will be available for residents and visitors who need a safe place during the storm, which forecasters warn could bring heavy rain, flash flooding, and localized severe weather.

Why it matters

Honolulu has faced a series of intense storm systems in recent weeks, prompting the city to take proactive measures to protect vulnerable populations. The activation of emergency shelters demonstrates the city's commitment to public safety and preparedness in the face of extreme weather events.

The details

The city has identified several locations to serve as shelter sites, which will be operated in partnership with the American Red Cross, houseless outreach providers, and Partners In Care. Residents seeking shelter are advised to bring essential supplies like food, water, and medications. All shelter locations will be pet-friendly, but owners are responsible for their animals.

  • Emergency shelters will open on Wednesday, April 9, 2026.
  • The city will continue to assess conditions and open additional shelters as needed.

The players

Rick Blangiardi

The Mayor of Honolulu, who is urging residents to prepare and seek shelter if they feel unsafe.

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What they’re saying

“We are urging people to prepare now and make a plan. Do not wait. If you feel unsafe and need a place to stay, go to a shelter. These facilities are here to protect you and your family, and we will continue to open more locations if conditions require it.”

— Rick Blangiardi, Mayor of Honolulu

What’s next

The city will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates on shelter locations and hours through HNL Alert and other communication channels.

The takeaway

Honolulu's proactive approach to opening emergency shelters demonstrates the city's commitment to public safety and preparedness in the face of extreme weather events. By providing safe havens for residents and visitors, the city is taking steps to protect vulnerable populations and minimize the impact of the impending storm.