A storm system approaching from the southwest brought heavy rain and strong winds to the State on Thursday and continued into the weekend. Although all islands were affected by the storm system, the heaviest damage to agriculture occurred on O‘ahu
A storm system approaching from the southwest brought heavy rain and strong winds to the State on Thursday and continued into the weekend.
Although all islands were affected by the storm system, the heaviest damage to agriculture occurred on O‘ahu and Hawai‘i islands.
Preliminary Statewide estimates of dollar losses to agriculture were estimated at between $1.5 to $2 million.
On Kaua‘i, the rains were considered beneficial for the major coffee plantings, and necessary to trigger the flowering that will result in next season’s crop.
Kaua‘i county weather was fair to poor for crop progress as the sunny, warm days with cool night time temperatures turned overcast and rainy when Thursday’s storm passed over the island and lingered through Friday.
Heavy mountain rains caused the Hanalei River to overflow on Thursday night and inundate some adjacent taro fields.
However, the river drained fairly quickly and by morning, farmers were able to do some harvesting.
Leafy crops made fair to poor progress while orchard crops were in fair to poor condition.
Spraying and other farm activities were hindered or halted at week’s end.
Agricultural highlights Fruits Papaya
Kaua‘i orchards were making fair progress.
Heavy rains hindered or halted field activities at the end of the week. Light to moderate harvest was expected.
Vegetables Sweet corn
Kaua‘i crop was making good progress. Moderate harvest with light off-island shipments are expected.
Lettuce
Supplies on Kaua‘i should be very light and for local sales. Excessive soil moisture and rain damage to seedlings hindered crop progress.
Other Crops Coffee Rains were beneficial to Kaua‘i orchards.
