Hawaii Weather Alert: Island Residents Bracing for Heavy Rain and High Winds
A powerful storm system is sweeping across Hawaii, bringing with it heavy rain, strong winds, and hazardous conditions. The National Weather Service has issued travel warnings across the islands, advising residents to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel.
Major statewide shutdowns have been announced, with schools and state offices closing on Monday due to expected significant rainfall totals. Governor Josh Green has urged caution, warning of "damaging winds" that could blow down trees, topple power lines, and cause damage to roofs.
Winds are forecast to reach 25-40 mph, with gusts up to 60 mph, posing a serious risk for drivers, particularly those driving high-profile vehicles. The National Weather Service has issued high wind warnings, warning of hazardous driving conditions due to powerful cross-winds.
In addition to the strong winds, flash flooding is also possible, with a flood watch in effect across all main Hawaiian islands until 6 pm Monday evening. Flood-prone roads and low-lying areas may be closed due to elevated runoff and overflowing streams, while urban areas risk significant flooding and property damage due to rapid runoff.
The high surf warning for east-facing shores of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Maui, Kahoolawe, and the Big Island until Tuesday morning means that "dangerously large breaking waves" of 10-15 feet are expected. Travelers in these areas are advised to avoid the shoreline, prepare for road closures, and delay entering or leaving channels affected by the high surf.
Meanwhile, a winter storm warning has been issued for Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa volcanic summits on the Big Island, with forecasters expecting 10-16 inches of snow and winds up to 45 mph. Travel plans to either summit have been recommended to be delayed until conditions improve.
Residents are advised to stay informed through regular updates from the National Weather Service, which will provide more information as the storm system continues to evolve.
A powerful storm system is sweeping across Hawaii, bringing with it heavy rain, strong winds, and hazardous conditions. The National Weather Service has issued travel warnings across the islands, advising residents to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel.
Major statewide shutdowns have been announced, with schools and state offices closing on Monday due to expected significant rainfall totals. Governor Josh Green has urged caution, warning of "damaging winds" that could blow down trees, topple power lines, and cause damage to roofs.
Winds are forecast to reach 25-40 mph, with gusts up to 60 mph, posing a serious risk for drivers, particularly those driving high-profile vehicles. The National Weather Service has issued high wind warnings, warning of hazardous driving conditions due to powerful cross-winds.
In addition to the strong winds, flash flooding is also possible, with a flood watch in effect across all main Hawaiian islands until 6 pm Monday evening. Flood-prone roads and low-lying areas may be closed due to elevated runoff and overflowing streams, while urban areas risk significant flooding and property damage due to rapid runoff.
The high surf warning for east-facing shores of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Maui, Kahoolawe, and the Big Island until Tuesday morning means that "dangerously large breaking waves" of 10-15 feet are expected. Travelers in these areas are advised to avoid the shoreline, prepare for road closures, and delay entering or leaving channels affected by the high surf.
Meanwhile, a winter storm warning has been issued for Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa volcanic summits on the Big Island, with forecasters expecting 10-16 inches of snow and winds up to 45 mph. Travel plans to either summit have been recommended to be delayed until conditions improve.
Residents are advised to stay informed through regular updates from the National Weather Service, which will provide more information as the storm system continues to evolve.