For residents either still taking refuge from now-Tropical Storm Iselle or waiting for it to hit, Governor Neil Abercrombie’s repeated use of the cliche “keep calm and carry on” during a press conference earlier today was the best indicator that the storm wasn’t nearly as destructive as residents had feared. At current time, Abercrombie said, there have been no “major injury” or casualty reports across the state. He added that state officials are carrying out a “virtual assessment” of damage on the Big Island.
Because of its direction, the storm hit the Big Island far worse than Maui, though it still dumped plenty of rain here and (as shown in the photo above) knocked over some trees. But with Tropical Cyclone Julio still classified as a Hurricane and still forecast to arrive near Hawaii this weekend, it’s tough to relax.
“We have been fortunate that Iselle appears to have subsided a bit, but weare [sic] still in a Tropical Storm Warning and must remain vigilant as Hurricane Julio is right around the corner,” said Mayor Alan Arakawa in a statement the county put out this morning. “I am grateful for all the responders who have been monitoring the situation 24/7 in the County’s Emergency Operations Center, and will continue to do so throughout Julio’s approach. The public’s cooperation in staying safe by staying off the roads and out of the water has also been greatly appreciated. Please pay close attention to weather and news updates on Julio so that we’re not caught off-guard.”
So far, state elections officials say they will still hold tomorrow’s Primary Election.
Photo of storm damage on Olinda Road: Corrine Peterson
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