Hurricane Douglas is projected to hit this weekend, July 25. (Graphic courtesy of NOAA.)
Levi K. Hookano
Chief, Client Services, Office of the Staff Judge Advocate
Hurricane season in Hawaii is upon us, and it is extremely important to be prepared. Hurricane Douglas is approaching the islands and could bring sever weather
to our island homes. Here are some tips to help you be prepared.
Make sure you have sufficient emergency supplies. Priorities should include water, food, and medications. Bottled water is an option, but not necessary, as
you can fill clean containers with tap water to store and use. A bathtub filled with water can be used for sanitation purposes. Also consider having a battery powered or
hand crank radio, flashlight with extra batteries, solar phone chargers, and protective containers for important documents, such as social security cards and estate planning
documents. Sufficient sanitation products are also highly recommended. Be sure to also have sufficient supplies for your pets.
Since 2019, the Army no longer pays for claims filed due to hurricane, flood, or other acts of nature or weather phenomena. Army Directive 2019-21,
signed on 29 May 2019, declared that the Army will no longer pay claims for unusual occurrences under the Personnel Claims Act when the damage is caused by flood,
hurricane, earthquake, or other acts of nature or weather phenomena. This was done to encourage individual responsibility for personal property. This means having private insurance policies in place.
Ensure your insurance policies are current and review their coverage. Hurricanes and other sever weather can cause significant damage to life and property.
You should review these documents to be sure there is coverage for weather phenomena. Flood insurance is usually a separate policy that is purchased apart from
your other policies. Some insurance companies may not pay out on a claim if damage is caused by water on the ground versus water falling from the sky.
Be safe, and remember that although hurricane season runs through November, severe weather can hit during all times of the year.