Navigating Disaster Readiness Together

When aio Hawaii and Hawaii Home + Remodeling presented the first Hawai‘i Disaster Preparation Guide in 2023, the wildfires in Lahaina, Maui, gave our Island community a profound moment of pause and reflection. We learned that even in our paradisal Aloha State, disasters can strike at any time — and that it takes a village to help everyone prepare for and stay connected through them.

Now in its third edition, Hawaii Disaster Preparation continues to build on relationships and shared knowledge as a hub of trusted resources. Thanks to our title sponsor, the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, and dedicated local leaders, we’ve compiled stories, tips, and information to strengthen your own readiness efforts.

View the Hawaii Disaster Preparation digital flipbook here or explore shareable online versions of our print articles. Here are some key stories to check out.

Photo: Courtesy of the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement

SPONSORED FEATURE:

Resilience in Action

Hawai‘i Community Foundation builds on lessons from Lahaina to support communities and place-based partnerships.

The spirit of lōkahi — a shared sense of purpose and unity — often reveals itself most powerfully in times of adversity. When wildfires struck Lahaina in 2023, the devastation was overwhelming. Yet in the aftermath, a wave of collective resolve rose from around the world to mālama those affected. HCF’s partnership with the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement is an example of how cross-sector collaboration powerfully emerged after the Lahaina fires. Expanding on the Maui Strong blueprint, HCF’s Stronger Hawai‘i initiative strengthens connections across the state among services, disaster response resources and the communities they serve. | READ MORE HERE

Photo: Courtesy of Chip Fletcher

Q&A FEATURE:

Weathering Change

Chip Fletcher explains how natural hazards are evolving and impacting Hawaii’s future.

With decades of research focused on sea level rise, coastal erosion and climate resilience, Chip Fletcher has become a leading local voice in disaster impact studies. We caught up with the dean of the University of Hawaii at Manoa’s School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology to gain insights and practical tips for Island homeowners. | READ MORE HERE

Illustration: Midjourney

HOME + REMODELING:

Built to Last

From roofing to retrofits, key upgrades can help homes endure Hawaii’s toughest threats.

Enjoying sunny days on your lanai and trade winds in your living room are some of the benefits of living in paradise. While Hawaii homes are often designed to take advantage of the Islands’ beautiful weather and scenery, local architects and contractors must also plan for nature’s extremes. Honolulu Department of Emergency Management director Dr. Randal A. Collins says readiness starts with disaster-resilient homes, which in turn support disaster-resilient communities. | READ MORE HERE

Photo: Sean Marrs

HEALTH + WELLNESS:

Caring for Mind, Body and Spirit

A holistic approach to disaster preparedness includes support for emotional and mental well-being.

The impact of a disaster isn’t just physical — it can quietly shake your emotional and mental well-being, too. In Hawaii, where ohana and cultural connection are central to life, healing often goes beyond repairing what’s been lost. “Part of preparing today means building our emotional and physical reserves,” says Tim Hansen, a licensed clinical social worker and policy director at the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Hawaii chapter. | READ MORE HERE

MORE STORIES:

Leading with Purpose
A Q&A with Hawaii Emergency Management Agency administrator James Barros.

Financial Readiness for the Unexpected
Experts share simple steps to protect your money and your ohana.

A Deep Dive on Disaster Insurance for Homeowners
What your policy might not cover — and why it matters.

Tune In and Reach Out
Reliable information and strong connections are key to navigating emergencies safely and confidently.

Utilities and Community Response
Restoring gas, water and power after emergencies takes skilled crews and cooperative residents.

Stay in Touch and Involved
Communications and community resources to remember.

FROM OUR PARTNERS:

Strength Starts with the Right Connections
Rinell Wood Systems stocks Simpson Strong-Tie hardware to fortify Hawaii’s homes against hurricanes.

Prepare for Hurricane Season with Impact-Resistant Windows
Invest in premium window upgrades with Hawaii Architectural Sales.

Restoring Confidence
Premier Restoration Hawai‘i encourages early disaster recovery planning for a smooth transition.