Hawaii’s HAM radio operators work through tsunami

February 27, 2010 Genevive Bjorn 1 Comment

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center says all coastal areas in Hawaii are vulnerable and urging people to stay away from beaches. Phone and cell lines are clogged, and HAM radio operators throughout the state are stepping in using nearly century-old technology to ensure emergency communications get through, according to Diane Bryant, and HAM radio operator on Maui, who suggests that what’s newer isn’t always better.

Bryant elaborates, “Many phone calls can not be returned, sorry, lines are sporatic at best due to high traffic and messages are garbled.

As many of you know I am an emergency HAM radio operator and I will be very busy today with the Emergency Operating Centers (EOCs).

I heard no siren this morning, either slept through it at 6 am or it is not audible at my location. I have been asked by the Oahu EOC to see if I can hear the 10 am siren. It’s 10:10 and I heard nothing. Not good.

My landlord Lyn owns Kihei Rent a Car and is staying on low ground till the last minute renting cars to people who need to get out of Kihei.”

Earthquake in Chile generates tsunami to hit Hawaii

February 27, 2010 Genevive Bjorn

Tsunami warning systems are firing on all of the Hawaiian islands today. An earthquake in Chile of magnitude 8.8 is causing the big wave to ripple across the Pacific. Wave heights are expected to be relatively small, between 3 and 7 feet, compared to the natural tide. Forecasters at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predict that the tide will rise 5 feet along coastal areas within 15 minutes at about 11:20 am HST. NOAA forecasters are also calling for increased tides in coastal areas along the West coast. If in doubt, move to higher ground.

Family

Hawaii healthy for children

February 5, 2010 Genevive Bjorn

Hawaii’s children are among the nation’s healthiest, according to the most recent data published by the National Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH). Areas where Hawaii’s children exceed the national level include having been breastfed, oral health, vigorous daily activity and positive social skills. More of Hawaii’s children are insured (96.2%), compared to Mainland children (90.9%), which may explain why they receive more preventative care.

Children in Hawaii fall slightly below national levels for days of school missed (5.7 in the las year, compared to 5.8 for Mainland children) and watch slightly more TV (55.9% watch TV one or more hours a day, versus 54.4%).

Still, children are highly valued in Hawaii’s culture, and it shows in these latest health data.