Lingle issues emergency proclamation
Advertiser Staff
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Governor Linda Lingle issued an emergency proclamation this morning.
While she said she’s spoken with officials in each of the counties she’s convinced that all counties are prepared, and that areas like Kalaupapa and Niihau have been taken into consideration in emergency planning.
One of the biggest issues, she said, is concern that flooding could create long-term damage to pump stations in Honolulu and Maui.
Shortly before 10 a.m., pump stations on both islands were shut down, according to state Civil Defense spokesperson Shelly Ichishita.
Shutting down the stations under the emergency order could cause sewage to back up into the water and streets. If the stations have to be shut down it would take weeks to repair, Lingle said.
“It is my feeling that each county is well prepared for the inundation that may occur,” Lingle said. She also urged residents in low-lying areas to evacuate and asked people to remain off the road. She said she had spoken with the Department of Homeland Security, and City Managing Director Kirk Caldwell.
Depending on the extent of damage, Lingle said she plans to go by plane with the Big Island mayor to assess damage.