Big Island officials are taking no chances as they prepare for Monday's expected arrival of Hurricane Felicia.

Felicia has been downgraded to a Category 1 storm and is expected to continue weakening before it reaches the Big Island sometime on Monday. Still, forecasters warn that it could still bring heavy rains, high surf and flash flooding.
Working in conjunction with state and federal counterparts, Hawaiçi County officials have already dispatched crews to clear culverts and drainage systems in anticipation of heavy rainfall and high surf generated by the hurricane. The county also shut down its parks and recreation department and has stopped issuing permits through Wednesday for public parks along the eastern shore, from Laupähoehoe Point Park to Wittington Beach Park, as well as Hoçokena Beach Park.
"We want to minimize our first responders having to go out unnecessarily, especially with 10- to 15-foot surf expected on the east-facing shores," said Big Island Mayor Billy Kanoe.
Kanoe said the Emergency Operations Center has also made plans to accommodate special-needs populations and to establish pet-friendly shelters if necessary.
Officials will monitor Felicia's progress and likely make a decision on whether to close schools and government offices by tomorrow afternoon or evening.
The county is advising residents to compile a hurricane-preparedness kit if they have not done so already, and to avoid going outside on Monday and Tuesday.
"People should just remain calm and stay confident in our civil defense," Kanoe said. "Look out for each other. If you know someone with special needs or a vulnerable population, reach out and help if you can.
"We're one island and one community," he said. "We have to take care of one another."