MEDIA RELEASE

* Free public presentation, 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, March 15, Kealakehe High School Library, Kona. (Follow the yellow signs.)

Do you hear people say that hurricanes won’t hit the Big Island because it’s too big? Don’t believe it. The Big Island is extremely vulnerable to hurricanes and earthquakes. We dodged Felicia and Flossie. Were we lulled into complacence? Hawaiian newspapers, circa 1880’s tell of a fierce hurricane doing damage to Hawaii Island.

Dennis Hwang, co-author of the “Homeowner’s Handbook to Prepare for Natural Hazards,” will open your eyes to the real possibilities, summarize the handbook and suggest a “phased” preparation for hurricanes based on hurricane watch and warning alerts. He will also address tsunami, earthquake and flooding hazards.

Hwang, affiliate faculty of UH Manoa, holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Geology from University of Rochester, Master of Science Degree in Geology and Geophysics from University of Hawaii, and Jurist Doctorate from the University of Houston concentrating in environmental and land use law.

Contact U.H. Sea Grant College Program 329-2861; reservations not required.