‘We are staying optimistic’: Regina native living in Hawaii bracing for Hurricane Lane

Considered to be the biggest weather threat to Hawaii in decades, Hurricane Lane has those living in Hawaii preparing for the worst, including Regina, Sask. native Heather Arias De Cordoba and her family.

Born and raised in the Queen City, Arias De Cordoba is living in Honolulu after leaving Canada nearly 30 years ago.

Like many other Hawaii residents, Arias De Cordoba said she and her family are doing their best to stay safe in a scenario that could become disastrous.

“We went out a couple of days ahead of time in the off hours, first thing in the morning, and got our gas, we went over to the grocery store and stocked up on all of our water. We’ve (also) filled up lots of water from the tap here,” Arias De Cordoba said.

Growing up in Saskatchewan, Arias De Cordoba said she is well aware of the damage that can be done when disaster strikes.

“Being from Regina, I’ve been through quite a few tornadoes, so I know those things can turn into projectiles when they’re blowing down the street. We’ve made sure to pull everything inside,” Arias De Cordoba said.

The State of Hawaii has been hard at work preparing for the Category 4 storm, stocking up on emergency food and water and readying shelters.

Arias De Cordoba said they are being positive and hoping for the best possible outcome.

“What that means for us, is a lot of extra water and moisture. There will be a lot of flooding.”

Arias De Cordoba has a concrete basement where they can go for safety and also has the option of heading to nearby schools dedicated as shelters.

“If we feel that we really need to get to someplace safe, it’s only a one-mile driving distance,” Arias De Cordoba said.

According to the National Weather Service, Hurricane Lane has seen wind speeds of 130 mph and has come within 350 miles of Hawaii.

American president Donald Trump has declared a state of emergency in the State of Hawaii.