Key Developments

Hurricane Lowell, a powerful Category 3 storm, is currently approaching western Hawaii with sustained winds of 115 mph. In response, the National Hurricane Center has issued a hurricane warning for the islands of Kauai and Niihau. The warning also extends to portions of the expansive Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, which covers a vast area of ocean and includes 10 of Hawaii's islands.

Current forecasts indicate that the center of Hurricane Lowell is expected to track just west of the main Hawaiian Islands on Monday night. The storm is projected to slow its pace by early Wednesday after passing the island chain. While gradual weakening is anticipated through Tuesday, Lowell is still expected to maintain hurricane strength as it moves near the Hawaiian Islands. Hurricane-force winds are extending outward up to 60 miles from the storm's center.

Significant rainfall is a major concern, with Kauai expected to receive an additional 6 to 10 inches, and potentially up to 14 inches in some areas. The Big Island could see 4 to 8 inches, with isolated totals reaching 12 inches. Oahu is forecast to receive 4 to 6 inches, with isolated totals of up to 8 inches. This rainfall raises the risk of "significant" flash flooding and mudslides, particularly in Kauai County and parts of Hawaii's Big Island.

In addition to heavy rain, Lowell could bring a storm surge of up to 3 feet to Kauai County. The storm is also expected to generate "life-threatening surf and rip current conditions" across many of the Hawaiian Islands. Furthermore, there is a possibility of several tornadoes forming near Kauai and Niihau from Monday afternoon through Monday night, with a few twisters also possible across the rest of Hawaii.

Key Takeaways

  • A hurricane warning is in effect for Kauai and Niihau as Hurricane Lowell, a Category 3 storm, approaches western Hawaii.
  • Significant rainfall, flash flooding, mudslides, and a storm surge of up to 3 feet are expected, along with the potential for tornadoes.
  • Lowell is forecast to pass west of the main Hawaiian Islands Monday night, maintaining hurricane strength despite gradual weakening.

Why It Matters

The issuance of a hurricane warning highlights the serious threat posed by Hurricane Lowell to the western Hawaiian Islands. Residents and authorities are preparing for potentially damaging winds, torrential rainfall leading to dangerous flooding and mudslides, and coastal inundation from storm surge. The possibility of tornadoes adds another layer of risk. The storm's path over the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument also raises concerns for the unique marine ecosystem within this protected area.