Free sandbags in Hawaii County, HI
Where to get sandbags, how to get official alerts, and how to check your own address before the next storm.
Where to get free sandbags in Hawaii County, HI
When storms threaten, Hawaii County Department of Public Works sets up free sand piles at sites around the island; bring your own sandbags (shovels and bags are not provided). You can also request sandbags from Public Works at dpwhwy@hawaiicounty.gov or 808-961-8321. Sites are announced in County storm updates.
- Hawaii County: sandpiles and shelters (Sept 2026)hawaiicounty.gov
- Hawaii County: request sandbags (Mar 2026)hawaiicounty.gov
Checked against official sources on October 24, 2026.
Free storm alerts for Hawaii County
When the National Weather Service issues a flood, fire, wind or hurricane warning for Hawaii County, we email you right away with what to do. We also give you a heads-up a day ahead when NOAA forecasts severe storms or flash-flooding rain.
Want alerts for your exact street instead? Check your address and sign up there.
Is your home in a flood or fire zone?
Type your address and see your flood, wildfire, earthquake and other hazard risks on one map, free. No sign-up needed.
Get official emergency alerts
Hawaii County's official alert system is Hawaii County Civil Defense alerts. It's free and sends warnings to your phone when a storm, fire or evacuation affects your area.
Before the storm: a quick checklist
- Pick up sandbags early. Supplies run out once a storm is in the forecast.
- Fill bags about halfway and lay them flat, overlapping like bricks, at doorways and the garage door.
- Clear gutters, downspouts and the storm drain in front of your house.
- Move valuables, papers and electronics off the floor.
- Take photos or a video of your rooms and belongings for insurance.
- Never walk or drive through floodwater. Turn around, don't drown.
Questions people ask
Where can I get free sandbags in Hawaii County, HI?
When storms threaten, Hawaii County Department of Public Works sets up free sand piles at sites around the island; bring your own sandbags (shovels and bags are not provided). You can also request sandbags from Public Works at dpwhwy@hawaiicounty.gov or 808-961-8321. Sites are announced in County storm updates.
How do I get emergency alerts in Hawaii County, HI?
Sign up for Hawaii County Civil Defense alerts, which is free, and turn on Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone.
How do I know if my home is in a flood zone in Hawaii County, HI?
Enter your address at mystormplan.com/check to see your FEMA flood zone and other hazards for your exact property, free.
How many sandbags do I need?
A common rule of thumb is about 100 bags to build a wall 1 foot high and 20 feet long. Most homes use sandbags to steer water away from doorways and garage doors. Fill bags only about halfway so they lie flat and tight.