Honolulu officials announced Saturday morning openings of eight publicly available hurricane refuge areas as Tropical Storm Lala approaches the Hawaiian Islands. The city said the shelters will be available to residents and visitors who need temporary protection from severe weather and will remain open "as conditions warrant."
Shelter locations and what to bring
The refuge areas are scheduled to open at 8 a.m. Saturday. City officials reminded those who plan to use the facilities to bring essential items including food, water and medications.
- Blanche Pope Elementary School
- Castle High School
- Kahuku Elementary
- Kapolei High School
- Mililani High School
- Moanalua High School
- Nanakuli Elementary
- Roosevelt High School
All listed refuge areas are pet-friendly. Pets must be leashed or secured in a carrier. Owners are asked to provide their animals' food, water and other necessary supplies while at the shelter.
Operations, partners and transit
The city will operate the refuge areas in partnership with the American Red Cross, supported by multiple city departments. Officials cautioned that the list of refuge areas is subject to change and advised residents to check the most current information at p.veoci.com/hnlshelter.
“The refuge areas will remain open as conditions warrant,” city officials said.
During an emergency, TheBus will provide evacuation service from affected areas. Buses assigned for evacuations will display "Evacuation" signs and will pick up riders who flag them down. Animals are permitted on the buses provided they can be safely secured or seated and do not interfere with the safety or comfort of the driver or other passengers.
How this affects residents and visitors
Opening the refuge areas is a precautionary measure meant to give people without safe shelter a place to ride out severe weather. The emphasis on pet-friendly accommodations and transit service underscores the city's aim to remove barriers to evacuation, particularly for households that might otherwise stay in at-risk areas during the storm.
City officials urged evacuees to plan ahead and bring items that shelter operations will not necessarily provide. In addition to food, water and medications, that list includes bedding, sanitation supplies and necessary items for children and pets. People with access or functional needs should come prepared with any assistive devices and supplies required for continuity of care.
Keeping informed
Officials said the shelter list could change depending on conditions. For the latest information on refuge area openings, closures and transit arrangements, residents should monitor official city communications and the shelter portal at p.veoci.com/hnlshelter.
| Refuge Area | Opening Time | Pet Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Blanche Pope Elementary | 8 a.m. Saturday | Pets allowed (leashed/carrier) |
| Castle High | 8 a.m. Saturday | Pets allowed (leashed/carrier) |
| Kahuku Elementary | 8 a.m. Saturday | Pets allowed (leashed/carrier) |
| Kapolei High | 8 a.m. Saturday | Pets allowed (leashed/carrier) |
| Mililani High | 8 a.m. Saturday | Pets allowed (leashed/carrier) |
| Moanalua High | 8 a.m. Saturday | Pets allowed (leashed/carrier) |
| Nanakuli Elementary | 8 a.m. Saturday | Pets allowed (leashed/carrier) |
| Roosevelt High | 8 a.m. Saturday | Pets allowed (leashed/carrier) |
As Tropical Storm Lala approaches, the city’s coordinated sheltering and transit plan aims to reduce risk to life and ensure that those without safe housing have options. Residents should continue preparations, follow official instructions and check for updates as conditions evolve.
