Natural Disaster Risk in Makaweli

Natural Hazard Profile: Makaweli, Hawaii

Makaweli, in Kauai County, is a small unincorporated community situated in the Hawaiian archipelago in the central Pacific. Its tropical climate brings warm temperatures moderated by trade winds and high volcanic terrain, and in particular elevated rainfall from November through March. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Makaweli residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Makaweli carries an overall risk score of 4.8/10, placing it in the moderate category. Tsunami risk is the primary coastal hazard, driven by the area's proximity to seismically active offshore zones capable of generating ocean waves that inundate low-lying coastlines. The area also faces notable exposure to landslide and wildfire.

Within Hawaii, Makaweli's risk is, near the 5.0/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Kauai County identifies tsunami as the foremost hazard, followed by landslide and wildfire. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Makaweli residents are well-served by maintaining standard preparedness practices — an emergency supply kit, awareness of local hazard seasonality, and insurance that covers the top local risks. Periodic review of coverage for tsunami is recommended.