The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) urged the Filipino community in Hawaii to make necessary preparations in anticipation of a powerful hurricane that is expected to hit the islands starting Thursday evening.
In a statement, the DFA said it is already monitoring the development of “Hurricane Lane,” a Category 4 storm packing sustained winds of between 74 to 100 miles per hour (mph). The department is also coordinating with the 375,000-strong Filipino community through the Philippine Consulate General in Honolulu.
READ: Hawaii residents brace themselves as hurricane strengthens
Citing a report from Consul General Joselito Jimeno, the DFA said a hurricane warning was already hoisted in the Big Island (Hawaii Island) and Maui, while a hurricane watch was in effect for Oahu, where Honolulu and Kauai Island are located.
Jimeno said Governor David Ige has issued an emergency proclamation for the entire state to mobilize emergency agencies ahead of the hurricane, which has been described as the most dangerous weather phenomenon to hit Hawaii in 25 years.
“We have advised the members of the Filipino Community to prepare emergency kits good for 14 days, as well as heed all the warnings and advise of Hawaii State and Federal government authorities and the specific warnings for their areas,” Jimeno said.
The Consul General also said that his office will remain open to serve Filipinos in Hawaii but will make an announcement if it has to be closed.
“Filipino nationals in the affected areas are advised to inform the Consulate General so it could update their relatives in the Philippines of their conditions. It also stands ready to provide assistance to anyone who will be affected by the hurricane,” Jimeno added. /jpv