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Waimea Today
By the People, for the People
Big Island Braces for Severe Weather, Shelters and Closures Announced
Hawai'i County establishes emergency shelters and closures as a precaution against the incoming storm
Published on Feb. 9, 2026
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Hawai'i County has announced the establishment of severe weather shelters at four locations across the Big Island in response to an incoming storm. All non-essential county services and operations, including park facilities and solid waste facilities, will be closed on Monday. Additionally, the Waipio Valley Access Road is closed to non-valley residents and farmers, and all state offices, schools, and the University of Hawai'i will be closed.
Why it matters
The Big Island is no stranger to severe weather, and these preemptive measures are intended to protect the safety of residents and visitors alike. Closures of essential services and infrastructure can have significant impacts on the daily lives of those affected, so the county is taking proactive steps to mitigate potential disruptions.
The details
The four severe weather shelters are located at the Waimea Community Center, Hisaoka Gymnasium in North Kohala, Honokaʻa Sports Complex Gym, and Papāʻaloa Park Community Center. These shelters will remain open until the threat has subsided. In addition to the county closures, all state offices, schools, and the University of Hawai'i will also be closed on Monday.
- The severe weather shelters were established on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
- All non-essential county services and operations, including park facilities and solid waste facilities, will be closed on Monday, February 9, 2026.
- The Waipio Valley Access Road is closed to non-valley residents and farmers as of Monday, February 9, 2026.
The players
Hawai'i County
The local government of the Big Island of Hawai'i, responsible for establishing the severe weather shelters and closures in response to the incoming storm.
What’s next
The county will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the status of the shelters and closures as the severe weather event progresses.
The takeaway
The proactive measures taken by Hawai'i County to establish emergency shelters and close non-essential services demonstrate the island's commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of its residents and visitors in the face of severe weather conditions.
