Gov. Josh Green announced Thursday that all public and charter schools and state offices on Oahu, Kauai and in Maui County will be closed on Friday, March 13, due to severe weather expected to impact the islands.

Affected state employees will receive administrative leave for Friday. Essential personnel and emergency response workers should follow guidance from their supervisors.

All University of Hawaii campuses on Oahu, Kaua’i and in Maui County also will be closed Friday. The university will be canceling all outdoor events on Saturday as well.

The Hawaii State Legislature also will be closed on Friday.

The Hawaiʻi State Judiciary will close state courthouses and suspend court operations on Oahu, Kauai, Maui, Molokai and Lanai Friday.

Filing deadlines due Friday will be extended to Monday and all hearings and trials scheduled for Friday at those locations will be rescheduled.

A decision regarding potential closures for Hawaii Island will be made later Thursday evening or early Friday morning, based on updated forecasts and conditions.

In advance of these conditions, the governor has issued an emergency proclamation to mobilize state resources and support response efforts. The proclamation is effective through March 18 and may be extended as conditions warrant.

The National Weather Service is forecasting major flooding, damaging southerly winds and strong to severe thunderstorms across the state through Saturday. Forecasters also warn that the storm system may generate severe thunderstorms capable of producing small hail, isolated waterspouts or tornadoes.

“The safety of our residents and state employees is our top priority,” Gov. Green said. “With the potential for heavy rain, flooding and damaging winds, closing state offices will help reduce unnecessary travel and allow people to focus on staying safe and preparing their homes and families.”

Also, Maui Economic Opportunity will be closing its Wailuku, Hana, Kaunakakai, Molokai, and Lanai City offices and Head Start preschools Friday.

Maui Bus paratransit service, operated by MEO, and Human Services transportation will continue operating and will provide essential and emergency evacuation services as needed.

For the safety of clients and staff, riders are strongly encouraged to stay home unless travel is necessary for their health or safety and to cancel any scheduled rides that will not be taken. MEO Transportation can be reached at (808) 877-7651.

MEO offices countywide will close at 4:30 p.m. Thursday to allow staff to get home safely.

Residents are encouraged to monitor weather conditions closely, avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain and high winds — and follow guidance from state and county emergency management officials.

For anyone with travel plans, the state Department of Transportation recommends that travelers check with their airlines on flight status prior to leaving for the airport.

The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency urges residents to remain prepared for severe weather by securing outdoor items, ensuring emergency supplies are available and staying informed through official alerts.

Preparedness information and updates are available at ready.hawaii.gov, where residents also can sign up for local alerts through their county emergency management agencies.