Hawaii DOT Details Storm Recovery Procedures

Following recent flooding that damaged roadways and infrastructure, the Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) has outlined its procedures for storm recovery. The agency’s response focuses on monitoring, assessment and safety, with a coordinated effort involving various state and city departments.

Monitoring and Initial Response

During severe weather events, HDOT crews actively monitor critical infrastructure, including drainage systems and bridges. They respond to callouts directed by the emergency operations center within each district, prioritizing crew safety. HDOT explained this process in a recent blog post.

Post-Storm Assessment

Once the weather system has passed, crews conduct thorough assessments. This includes:

• Checking culverts and canals for obstructions.
• Evaluating barriers and guardrails for damage from debris or high winds.
• Inspecting slopes for loose material and fallen trees.
• Examining bridges and pavement in flooded areas.

Safety closures are implemented when necessary, communicated through signage and public updates.

Bridge Inspections and Safety Measures

Detailed inspections of bridge footings, supports, and deck structures are conducted as the weather system moves away. HDOT engineers and inspectors look for signs of scour – erosion around bridge foundations – by examining debris lines, observing changes in stream beds, and monitoring for structural movement or settlement. More information on HDOT’s bridge management tactics is available on their website.

If a bridge shows signs of potential failure, HDOT will take immediate action to ensure public safety. This may involve reducing the posted weight capacity, limiting access to local traffic, or completely closing the bridge.

Multi-Agency Collaboration

The state’s response to traffic-related incidents and emergencies is coordinated through the Joint Traffic Management Center (JTMC) and Emergency Operations Center (EOC). This multiagency collaboration includes the City and County of Honolulu Departments of Transportation Services, Emergency Management Services, and Emergency Medical Services, as well as the Honolulu Police and Fire Departments and the State of Hawaii Department of Transportation. SSFM details the collaborative nature of the JTMC and EOC.

Traffic Monitoring Resources

Motorists can check current traffic conditions on Oahu and Maui freeways and highways using GoAkamai.org, providing real-time information before travel. The Hawaii Department of Transportation is responsible for planning, designing, constructing, operating, and maintaining all state transportation facilities.