As Hurricane Lowell tracks north toward the Hawaiian Islands, officials have issued hurricane warnings for Kauai County and Niihau alongside a tropical storm warning for Oahu. Residents are rushing preparations to completion as forecasters warn of heavy rainfall, destructive surf, and potential coastal flooding.
Powerful Hurricane Lowell is tracking north through the Pacific Ocean, drawing closer to Hawaii’s western islands and prompting emergency warnings across multiple counties. According to the National Weather Service, the storm is expected to pass to the west of Kauai and Niihau.
Hurricane Warnings Issued for Kauai and Niihau as Storm Nears
A Hurricane Warning is in effect for Kauai County, including the islands of Kauai and Niihau, as well as portions of the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument. A Tropical Storm Warning remains in effect for Oahu, the state’s most populated island. Preparations to protect life and property should be rushed to completion,
the National Weather Service advised as weather conditions rapidly deteriorate.
The storm’s center was located hundreds of miles southwest of Lihue, carrying maximum sustained winds of 110 to 115 mph. Although computer models indicate the hurricane’s center will likely pass offshore, its expansive wind field guarantees significant local impacts. Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 50 to 60 miles from the center, while tropical storm-force winds reach outward up to 175 miles.
Severe Flooding, Heavy Rains, and Tornado Risks Threaten the Islands
Forecasters warn that the storm will drop substantial rainfall across the island chain. Kauai is projected to receive 6 to 10 inches of rain, with isolated maximum totals reaching up to 14 inches. Meanwhile, the Big Island is anticipated to see 4 to 8 inches of rain, with localized peaks reaching 12 inches.
The excessive downpours carry a severe risk of flash flooding and mudslides, particularly across interior mountain slopes and rivers. You know we’re having multiple rivers reaching flood stage. … We could have a prolonged closure out there of the Kuhio Highway, but other areas island-wide could be affected,
Kauai Emergency Management Administrator Elton Ushio said. Officials also warned that high winds could spawn brief tornadoes across Kauai and Niihau.
Statewide State of Emergency and Precautionary Closures
Hawaii Governor Josh Green declared a state of emergency in preparation for the severe weather.
Retail stores across the islands saw a surge in emergency supplies.
Dangerous Coastal Surfs and Storm Surges Batter Shorelines
Coastal areas face compounding hazards from large swells, high tides, and storm surges. Storm surges of 1 to 4 feet are predicted to push water inland across normally dry coastal regions, prompting local authorities to urge residents in low-lying areas to remain sheltered.
Emergency Response and What Lies Ahead
Kauai County Mayor Derek Kawakami urged residents to clear the roads and shelter in place. I have to say, what I’ve observed over the last few days is nothing less than phenomenal,
Kawakami said, praising community preparedness. I’ve seen people getting out there, getting prepared.
As Lowell moves north-northwest and begins to encounter cooler sea surface temperatures and increasing wind shear, forecasters expect the hurricane to gradually weaken.
