State Seal

 

DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

 

News Release

     LINDA LINGLE              

           GOVERNOR

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

                                                                                                                                                                                               

                                                                                                                                              PETER T. YOUNG, CHAIRPERSON

                                                                                                                                              Phone: (808) 587-0401

                                                                                                                                              Fax: (808) 587-0390

                                                                                                                                             

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

For Immediate Release: March 26, 2006

  

DLNR Reminds Public To Heed Weather Warnings
And Stay Safe, Keep Drianageways Clear

HONOLULU -- The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) is reminding the public to stay safe during periods of heavy rain and flash flood watch or warnings.

"We advise people to stay off Hawaii's trails and avoid crossing streams during the stormy conditions due to dangers from flash flood," said Peter Young, DLNR Chairperson.

"People should not attempt to cross high, swift flowing water on roadways, as well," said Young.

"Please postpone plans for hiking, camping or even sightseeing during these times of heavy and continuous rains. With the Kuhio Day holiday, it is a good day to say at home, rather than attempt to venture out into the weather."

"Since heavy rains are predicted and flash flood advisories are in effect, heed those warnings and avoid going out into those conditions, for your own safety."

"Don't let your children play in streams or storm run-off it could be contaminated with bacteria that will make your children sick."

Swimming in rivers and near shore water that is muddy or murky can be dangerous due to potential bacterial contamination, or unseen bulky or dangerous objects that may have washed into the ocean.

Sharks are also more likely to be drawn toward the murky nearshore waters in search of food.

DLNR also reminds residents not to throw their yard trimmings, cut tree branches, or other rubbish or bulky items into their nearby drainage channels or streams.

"Treating our streams and drainage ways as dumps for rains to wash away trash or even natural green waste, contributes to stream clogging and potential flooding during rainstorms," said Young.

"Everyone needs to do their part to keep our urban streams and channels clear of debris."

"What comes out of the watersheds and upland neighborhoods will wind up at the beaches, harbors and in the ocean," Young added.


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For more information, contact:
Peter Young
Cell: 226-3567