Water Supply Urges Customers to Prepare for Approaching Storm
The Department of Water Supply (DWS), County of Hawai‘i, urges its customers to prepare for an approaching storm that could interrupt electrical service needed to operate DWS’ equipment and deliver drinking water to their homes, businesses, and other locations. Customers who depend on a continuous supply of water should review their personal situations and set aside drinking water ahead of time to meet their essential needs in the event a prolonged power outage disrupts their DWS service.
Hurricane Fausto is forecast to approach Hawai‘i Island early next week, according to the National Hurricane Center and Central Pacific Hurricane Center.
Water preparation tips include:
• Determine Household Water Needs. Each person should have a minimum of one gallon of water per day for at least 14 days, according to the Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA). Pets and livestock also require water.
• Store Water Safely. Use only clean, dedicated, food-grade containers. Wash containers thoroughly with dishwashing soap, sanitize using one teaspoon of mild liquid chlorine bleach per quart of water, and then rinse thoroughly. Fill containers from the tap, leaving as little air as possible. Store in a cool, dark area. Water that has not been commercially bottled should be replaced every six months, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
• Treat Drinking Water. During an emergency, it may be necessary for DWS to issue a Boil Water Notice due to water quality problems. Customers will be made aware of this via various communication channels. If this is necessary, instructions to treat water can be found on FEMA’s website.
• Restrict Water Use. During emergencies, restrict water use to essential uses only such as drinking, cooking, and sanitation. No lawn watering, car/boating washing, etc.
• Stay Informed. Sign up for free Hawai‘i County Civil Defense alerts at:
This is your Hawaiʻi County Department of Water Supply.