Tropical Storm Hone Approaches Hawaii’s Big Island
Tropical Storm Hone is making its way towards Hawaii’s Big Island, bringing with it maximum sustained winds of 65 mph, according to forecasters. As of Saturday evening, the center of the storm was approximately 125 miles southeast of Hilo and moving west at a speed of 14 mph, as reported by the National Hurricane Center in its 5 p.m. local time update.
The forecast indicates that Tropical Storm Hone is expected to pass near or south of the island on Saturday night into early Sunday. The storm’s strength is likely to peak overnight into Monday, with modest strengthening anticipated over the next 24 to 36 hours. The hurricane center mentioned in its update that Hone is expected to reach just below hurricane intensity on Sunday into Monday.
A tropical storm transitions into a hurricane when its sustained winds reach a minimum of 74 miles per hour. With steady rain falling on the Big Island on Saturday afternoon, the weather service office in Honolulu warned of intensifying rainfall that could lead to flash flooding. Residents on the Big Island were advised to prepare for 6 to 12 inches of rain.
A tropical storm warning was issued for Hawaii County, with swells expected to bring life-threatening surf and rip currents across the island chain on Saturday. The hurricane center cautioned about „rapidly rising“ wave heights of 14 to 18 feet along the east-facing coastline of the Big Island, where dangerous waves could persist through Sunday. The east-facing shores of Maui were also expected to experience a rapid increase in wave heights.
In response to the approaching storm, Governor Josh Green declared a state of emergency on Saturday, which was set to remain in effect through Monday. This proclamation enables the governor to activate the National Guard and a state disaster fund, while also suspending certain state laws that could impede a swift response. State forestry and wildlife officials took precautionary measures by closing camping areas on the Big Island.
Additionally, there is another storm, Hurricane Gilma, located to the east of Hone and heading towards the Hawaiian Islands. However, it is projected to weaken into a tropical depression before reaching the state, and as a result, there are no coastal watches or warnings in place for this storm.
As the situation continues to evolve, it is crucial for residents to stay informed and heed the advice of local authorities. Stay away from shorelines along the affected coasts, and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety and well-being during this challenging weather event.
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