This radar image shows a power storm over Hawaii early Wednesday morning. Photo courtesy NWS

Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen signed an emergency proclamation Tuesday as Maui County continued preparations for a powerful kona storm that is expected to bring heavy rain, flooding and strong winds to the Hawaiian Islands this week.

The proclamation allows the county to access state and federal assistance and streamline procedures to quickly deploy resources, personnel and services if needed.

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for Maui County from Wednesday morning through Saturday afternoon as a “large and powerful” kona low moves toward the islands. Forecasters say persistent bands of heavy rain and thunderstorms could produce intense rainfall, leading to rapid rises in streams and flooding in low-lying areas.

A special marine warning has also been issued for waters around Maui County, as well as the Alenuihaha, Kaiwi and Pailolo channels and Maalaea Bay. The storm could produce waterspouts capable of overturning boats and creating hazardous seas.

The National Weather Service has issued a number of warnings and watches as a powerful storm circles over Hawaii. Courtesy photo

“The county is actively preparing for the potential impacts of this strong Kona low storm, including heavy rain, severe flooding and damaging wind,” Bissen said. “We encourage everyone in Maui County to take time now to prepare, stay alert and look out for one another.”

The Maui Emergency Management Agency has been coordinating with county departments, state agencies and nonprofit partners ahead of the storm. Preparations include clearing storm drains and culverts, checking flood control systems, fueling emergency response equipment and positioning sandbags and traffic control devices.

County departments also have prepared water and wastewater infrastructure, and crews are on standby to respond if needed.

The Department of Human Concerns said unhoused people seeking shelter during the storm can go directly to the Ka Hale A Ke Ola Homeless Resource Center in Wailuku and sign in at the operations desk for assistance.

Emergency officials are also coordinating with the American Red Cross and other partners to identify shelters that could open if evacuations become necessary.

State officials also are taking precautions.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources announced that all camping areas on Oahu, Maui and Molokai closed starting at 1 a.m. Wednesday until further notice due to the approaching storms.

DLNR also advised residents and visitors to avoid forested and coastal areas because of hazards such as flash flooding, falling trees, landslides, high surf and storm surge. Boaters are encouraged to check moorings and bilge pumps and secure cabins and hatches ahead of the storm.

Maui Emergency Management Agency Administrator Amos Lonokailua-Hewett urged residents and visitors to stay informed, prepare emergency kits and check on neighbors.

“Due to damaging wind, rain and flooding predicted with this Kona low, everyone is encouraged to be prepared,” Lonokailua-Hewett said. “Please take care of your households and check in on kūpuna, keiki, family, friends and neighbors. Looking out for one another helps keep our entire community safe.”

For updates, residents can visit the National Weather Service in Honolulu at weather.gov/hfo or sign up for Maui Emergency Management Agency alerts at mauicounty.gov/MEMA.