Editor’s Notes: Hawaii Disaster Preparation

A special edition of Hawaii Home + Remodeling magazine, presented by aio Hawaii and Hawai‘i Community Foundation.

I was 9 years old when Hurricane Iniki approached the Islands. As a fourth grader, I didn’t fully grasp the gravity of the situation — I just remember sirens blaring at 5 a.m. on September 11, 1992, and wondering if it was a test or a mistake. Turning on the TV and learning there was no school was a big deal, but seeing the massive storm spinning toward Oahu and Kauai was unbelievable. Hurricane Andrew had devastated Florida a few weeks earlier, and the catastrophic images from the news were still fresh in my mind.

Honolulu was spared the worst of Iniki, but that day left a lasting impression. I learned that disaster preparation isn’t something you do alone. My family lived in an apartment complex, and while we had our own supplies, talking story with neighbors and sharing updates helped us all feel more grounded. It really does take a community to face the uncertainty of a disaster — before, during and after.

I also came to understand how important it is to care for our mental and emotional health in times of crisis. Waiting out a hurricane is its own kind of stress. I remember switching from nonstop news coverage to MTV for a break, playing in the hallway with friends, and then retreating inside when the winds picked up. Looking back, I realize my neighbors weren’t just focused on storm prep — they were helping us stay calm, connected and cared for.

In this third edition of the Hawaii Disaster Preparation guide, we highlight the importance of a holistic approach to readiness and recovery. We spoke with local leaders about what makes Hawaii’s challenges and strengths unique, from geographic isolation to tight-knit community networks.

We’re honored to present this issue with the support of Hawai‘i Community Foundation as our title sponsor. The nonprofit’s Stronger Hawai‘i initiative has created lasting partnerships across public, private and nonprofit sectors, building an expansive hui of resources ready to assist with whatever comes our way.

Whether you’re just starting or refining your plans, I hope this guide empowers you and your ohana to be ready, informed and reminded that we’re strongest when we face the unknown together.

Aloha,
Darlene Dela Cruz
Hawaii Home + Remodeling Editor