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Your comprehensive, actionable guide to navigating emergencies in Kailua-Kona.
This guide uses AI-researched data and is being verified by our team. Routes and locations should be confirmed before use in an emergency.
Kailua-Kona sits on the leeward coast of Hawaii Island between two active volcanoes: Hualalai directly above town and Mauna Loa to the southeast. The waterfront Ali'i Drive is at sea level and completely exposed to tsunami. Evacuation for tsunami means going UPHILL (mauka) immediately.
For volcanic events, evacuate north along Queen Kaahumanu Highway (HI-19) to Waimea, or south along HI-11 to Captain Cook. HI-190 provides an inland alternate to Waimea. Saddle Road (HI-200) via Waimea offers cross-island access to Hilo. There is no inter-island bridge - air and sea are the only ways off the Big Island.
Communication: Primary: cell/text. Secondary: out-of-state mainland contact. West Hawaii cell coverage is good in Kona town but drops off quickly inland. Have NOAA weather radio. Know the tsunami siren system: steady 3-minute tone means seek information.
Meeting Points: Primary: West Hawaii Civic Center (inland, above sea level). Secondary: Holualoa Village (1,400 ft, coffee country). Out-of-area: mainland family contact for coordination.
Roles: Person A: grab go-bags, N95 masks, water containers. Person B: children, pets, medications. Person C: check volcano/tsunami status, choose correct route, drive UPHILL.
Use this guide as a base for your personalized strategy.