As it happened: Hurricane Nolo
Hurricane Nolo became a named tropical cyclone on Sept. 23, 2026, and some projections showed the storm moving north and impacting the southern parts of Hawaiʻi Island.
While the storm brought winds and heavy rain, it was not as destructive as expected.
On Maui, efforts to control a brush fire in West Maui were hampered by high winds caused by the storm. Area residents were evacuated and thousands lost power.
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Resources to stay informed on the storm's progression
- Residents and visitors can sign up for emergency alerts here.
- National Weather Service Honolulu Forecast Office — for the latest advisories, watches and warnings.
- Central Pacific Hurricane Center — offers storm tracking via satellite and radar. The Center posts updates at 5 a.m., 11 a.m., 5 p.m., and 11 p.m. HST.
- Hawaiian Electric and KIUC outage maps — track where the power's out on each island.
School status update
The Hawaiʻi State Department of Education says all public schools on Hawaiʻi Island and most schools in Maui County will reopen Monday.
The campuses were closed as a precaution ahead of Hurricane Nolo.
Four Lahaina schools will remain closed Monday due to ongoing power outages, uncertainty with the Olowalu brush fire and concerns about maintaining reliable water service. Those schools are:
- King Kamehameha III Elementary School
- Princess Nāhiʻenaʻena Elementary School
- Lahaina Intermediate School
- Lahainaluna High School
The DOE says it will continue monitoring conditions in West Maui. It will also coordinate with emergency management officials and utility providers to determine when the four campuses can safely reopen.
Hurricane Nolo did not cause significant damage to any DOE campsues across the state.
Some Hawaiʻi Island communities experienced flooding, high winds and temporary road closures, but campus assessments indicate that schools are ready to reopen and roads are accessible.
Strong winds continue as Nolo moves further away
High winds persist across the state, even as Hurricane Nolo remains south of the main Hawaiian islands.
The National Weather Service says a high wind warning remains in effect for Oʻahu, Molokaʻi, Maui, and Hawaiʻi Island until Monday morning. Winds are measuring 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph.
Data from the Hawaiʻi Mesonet - Hawaiʻi Climate Data Portal team at the University of Hawaiʻi showed the strongest winds for Hawaiʻi Island peaked on Saturday. Instruments along Kohala Mountain Road measured a maximum gust of 67 mph and a gust of 63.5 mph near Kawaihae.
The Central Pacific Hurricane Center said in a 5:00 p.m. Sunday update that Nolo was a Category 4 hurricane with sustained winds of 145 mph with additional strengthening expected over the next day or two.
Nolo is moving toward the west-northwest at roughly 12 mph. A gradual turn toward the northwest is forecast for Sunday night. It'll that motion through Tuesday.
According to forecast models, the center of Nolo will remain well south and southwest of the main Hawaiian Islands, but will approach the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument on Tuesday.
A hurricane watch is in place for the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument from Nihoa to French Frigate Shoals.
Maui County opens Pukalani charging site amid power outages
Maui County is opening the Mayor Hannibal Tavares Community Center’s meeting room in Pukalani for residents impacted by power outages in the area. The temporary service site will provide charging stations for personal electronics and Starlink internet.
The South Maui temporary evacuation point closed at 3 p.m. Sunday, after opening Saturday for Olowalu residents under evacuation orders from the Olowalu Village brush fire. Its occupancy reached 66 occupants, but the site had no one sheltering there as of Sunday morning.
The emergency shelter at the Lahaina Civic Center Gym is still open for those impacted by the brush fire and power outages in West Maui. As of 1 p.m. this afternoon, 12 Lahaina residents were at the site, which had peaked at an occupancy of 29 people.
HECO shuts off power in Maui's Pukalani neighborhood amid wildfire risk
Hawaiian Electric has activated its Public Safety Power Shutoff, or PSPS, program and has proactively shut off power in the Pukalani area on Maui area due to wildfire risk. HECO officials said they will closely monitor conditions and restore power as soon as they can, while also prioritizing safety.
As of 2 p.m. Sunday, about 11,300 customers are without power in West Maui, Haʻikū and Upcountry, which are outages separate from the PSPS. HECO's safety power shutoff is currently impacting about 485 customers in Pukalani.
HECO is asking West Maui customers who are currently without power to prepare for an overnight outage as crews complete inspections and make repairs. The earliest that power can be restored is estimated to be noon tomorrow, Sept. 28.
Hawaiʻi County asks residents, businesses to report storm damage
Hawaiʻi County is asking residents and businesses to report damage and other unmet needs following the recent storm system that impacted the island.
Residents can use the following forms:
- Report residential property damage
- Report commercial property damage
- Request assistance for other unmet needs
The county says reporting storm damage and requests for assistance will help local officials and nonprofit partners better understand the extent of the damage and its impacts on the community.
For more information, residents can visit the Hawaiʻi County Hazard Impact Map.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park reopens most areas after Nolo
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has reopened most areas around the Kīlauea summit and the Kahuku Unit following Hurricane Nolo, according to the National Park Service.
Several areas around Kīlauea and Mauna Loa remain closed, including Hilina Pali Road past the Mauna Iki trailhead, Mauna Loa Road past the second cattleguard, Kīpukapuaulu Trail and the Sulphur Banks Bridge.
Trails at the Kahuku Unit will reopen as park staff finish assessments. Hikers should follow signs posted at trailheads and check with staff at the Welcome Center for the latest information.
Park officials also advise hikers throughout Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park to watch for potential hazards, including hanging branches, loose rocks and uneven terrain on trails.
HECO crews work to restore power as Oʻahu outages continue
Hawaiian Electric crews have been working to restore power across Oʻahu today. The company’s power outage map has fluctuated throughout Sunday, with as many as 24 power outages impacting nearly 5,000 customers around noon. However, by 2 p.m. Sunday, HECO reported 16 outages across the island. Roughly 830 customers are being impacted by the power outages.
Brush fire reported in Kahului as strong winds raise risk
A brush fire in Kahului on Maui was reported at 12:35 p.m. near Pulehu and Hansen roads. Crews are working at the scene, and residents are asked to avoid the area. Maui Emergency Management Agency advised people to stay tuned for updates, and residents should be prepared to evacuate if conditions worsen.
This comes a day after a fire broke out in West Maui’s Olowalu Village, prompting an evacuation order for the area. As of 8 a.m. Sunday morning, the fire had burned more than 100 acres and was 70% contained.
The National Weather Service said Sunday in its daily report that the combination of very strong winds, dry conditions and relative humidity combined to create "near critical fire weather levels in many leeward locations" on Maui, but said that they did not issue a red flag warning because of "the limited widespread readiness of fuels."
Haleakalā National Park reopens both districts after Nolo
Both districts of Haleakalā National Park are now open. Sunrise reservations, frontcountry camping in the Kīpahulu District and backcountry camping will all resume Monday. Frontcountry camping in the Summit District at Hosmer Grove will resume later this week.
Nonprofit transports 20 people experiencing homelessness to shelters
Service providers on Hawai‘i Island transported 20 people experiencing homelessness to shelters ahead of and during Hurricane Nolo.
Officials from the nonprofit HOPE Services Hawai‘i told HPR that 111 people experiencing homelessness have sheltered in place and another 131 people have been offered supplies like food and tarps for their makeshift shelters.
As of Sunday, there have been no rescues of people experiencing homelessness, according to service providers.
What to expect as Hurricane Nolo moves away, island by island:
The Central Pacific Hurricane Center said Sunday at 11 a.m. that Hurricane Nolo continues to strengthen as it moves west away from the main Hawaiian Islands and is forecast to reach peak intensity Monday. A hurricane watch has been issued for portions of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands as Nolo moves toward the area.
Hawaiʻi Island
A high surf advisory, high surf warning, high wind warning for portions of the lower elevations, and wind advisory for portions of the lower elevations remain in effect.
Sunday’s forecast called for windy conditions and numerous afternoon showers, especially in windward areas, with scattered showers continuing into the night.
Southeast swell generated by Nolo began declining Sunday morning but continues to produce advisory-level surf along east and southeast-facing shores. The large swells are forecast to diminish on Sunday.
Maui Nui
A high wind warning remains in effect for Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi and Maui, and a high surf advisory remains in effect for Molokaʻi and Maui.
Sunday’s forecast called for very windy, mostly sunny conditions with scattered showers. Wind gusts reached 80 mph Sunday morning. Strong trade winds are expected to diminish and turn southeast Monday night into Tuesday. By the end of the week, light southeast winds and drier conditions are expected.
Large waves and rip currents may continue to affect east and south-facing shores through the next few days.
Oʻahu
A high surf advisory and wind advisory remain in effect.
Sunday’s forecast called for very windy, mostly sunny conditions with scattered showers. Wind gusts reached 55 mph Sunday morning. Strong trade winds are expected to diminish and turn southeast Monday night into Tuesday. By the end of the week, light southeast winds and drier conditions are expected.
Large waves and rip currents may continue to affect east and south-facing shores through the next few days. East shore surf will fade as Nolo moves westward and then northwestward, while south- and west-facing surf will increase Sunday through Monday.
Kauaʻi
A high surf advisory remains in effect for Kauaʻi, and a wind advisory remains in effect for Kauaʻi and Niʻihau.
Sunday’s forecast called for very windy, mostly sunny conditions with scattered showers. Strong trade winds are expected to diminish and turn southeast Monday night into Tuesday. More persistent rain is forecast to develop over Kauaʻi from late Tuesday to Wednesday as trailing moisture from Nolo becomes established over the island. Rainfall is expected to be less than an inch over 24 hours. By the end of the week, light southeast winds and drier conditions are expected.
Large waves and rip currents may continue to affect east and south-facing shores through the next few days. East shore surf will fade as Nolo moves westward and then northwestward, while south- and west-facing surf will increase Sunday through Monday.
Parts of Hawaiʻi Island asked to limit water to essential use only
The Hawaiʻi County Department of Water Supply is asking customers in parts of Hawaiʻi Island to limit water use to essential needs only following impacts from Hurricane Nolo.
The restriction applies to customers in the Lālāmilo, Mauna Lani, Maunakea, Hāpuna and Kawaihae water service areas, as well as the Waiʻōhinu-Nāʻālehu Water System, which includes Nāʻālehu, Waiʻōhinu, Discovery Harbour, Mark Twain, Green Sands and South Point.
Residents are asked to avoid non-essential uses, including lawn watering, washing vehicles, filling pools, pressure washing, and other unnecessary or high-volume water use until further notice.
Hurricane watch issued for portions of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument
Hurricane Nolo continues to strengthen as it moves west away from the main Hawaiian Islands and is forecast to reach its peak intensity on Monday. A hurricane watch has been issued for portions of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands as Nolo moves toward this area.
The Central Pacific Hurricane Center said that Nolo’s maximum sustained winds have increased to near 115 mph, with higher gusts. Nolo is a Category 3 hurricane.
Forecasters said Nolo will turn toward the northwest Sunday night, continuing in this direction through Tuesday. The center of Nolo is expected to stay well south and southwest of the main Hawaiian Islands, but will approach the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument in the next couple of days. Nolo is expected to start gradually weakening in about two days.
Strong and gusty winds are still possible for the main Hawaiian Islands through Sunday afternoon.
Swells from Nolo will persist along the east and south-facing shores of the main Hawaiian Islands over the coming days. These swells may create dangerous surf and rip current situations.
Starting Monday, large surf will hit the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument and is likely to inundate some of the low-lying atolls, especially French Frigate Shoals (Kānemiloha'i) through Nīhoa. Thousands of marine species live in the monument, including endangered Hawaiian monk seals and threatened green sea turtles.
Māmalahoa Highway reopens to traffic from Hilo to South Kona
Due to heavy rain in the Kaʻū District last night, Highway 11, also known as Māmalahoa Highway, between Pāhala and Waiʻōhinu was flooded in multiple locations, causing the highway to close.
Throughout the morning, the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation and county Department of Public Works crews have been working to clear the highway of debris. Māmalahoa Highway is now open to all traffic from Hilo to South Kona.
Motorists are advised to drive with caution as crews continue to clear road shoulders of debris.
Highway 250, or Kohala Mountain Road, remains closed due to high winds and hazardous conditions.
Over 4,000 reported without power on Hawaiʻi Island
More than 4,000 customers on Hawaiʻi Island are without power as of 10:07 a.m. this morning, according to Hawaiian Electric.
The outages are located on the north and south sides of the island. The north side outages include Waimea, Honokaʻa, Kawaihae and Puakō.
On the south side of the island, the outages are between Ocean View and Nāʻālehu.
View the power outage map for Hawaiʻi Island here.
Power restored to many on Oʻahu
At 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, Hawaiian Electric reported 23 outages on Oʻahu, impacting roughly 1,400 customers on the island's south and east-facing shores.
However, by 9:50 a.m., HECO had updated its power outage map, which showed 17 outages remained with 84 customers impacted.
More than 12,000 customers on Maui are without power
More than 12,000 customers on Maui are without power as of 7 a.m. this morning, according to Hawaiian Electric. The outages are located in West Maui, Haʻikū and Upcountry, with the majority of the outages in West Maui, where power lines were deenergized yesterday due to a brushfire in Olowalu.
These outages are not Public Safety Power Shutoffs. Early this morning, severe weather conditions caused power outages from Lahaina to Kapalua.
Once the weather improves, crews will inspect the lines and do repairs as needed. Inspection may involve ground crews as well as helicopters and drones, during daylight hours. Hawaiian Electric advises customers should plan for extended outages.
Less rain, gusty winds expected from Hurricane Nolo as it moves west
Hurricane Nolo continues to move westward south of the Hawaiian Islands.
The Central Pacific Hurricane Center said it was roughly 200 miles south-southwest of South Point on Hawaiʻi Island in its 11:00 p.m. Saturday update.
According to forecasters, strong and gusty winds are possible for all of the Hawaiian Islands through the weekend, but the core winds from Nolo will stay to the south.
A high wind warning is in place through 6:00 p.m. Sunday for portions of Hawaiʻi Island, Maui, Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi — especially in West Maui and Kohala.
Damaging winds may damage roofs, blow down trees and power lines. Power outages are also possible. Travel will be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.
For Sunday, Nolo will produce additional rainfall totals of 1 to 2 inches, with isolated maximum amounts of 4 inches, for the eastern and southern portions of the Hawaiʻi Island. For the western portions of the Hawaiʻi Island, rainfall totals of an inch or less are expected.
For eastern Maui, additional rainfall totals of 1 to 2 inches are expected.
The threat of significant storm surge has diminished, yet water levels along the coast will remain elevated through upcoming tide cycles due to persistent, dangerous waves.
Hawaiʻi County Mayor gives information about flooding from Nolo
In a 10 p.m. update, Hawaiʻi Island Mayor Kimo Alameda said that there was significant flooding in Waiʻōhinu and Nāʻālehu on the south side of the island, with road closures in Waiʻōhinu and Pāhala.
He said that in Kohala on the north side of Hawaiʻi Island, high winds have led to the closure of Kohala Mountain road since Friday evening.
He said there was minor flooding in Hilo, noting that the water “was flowing okay” at Piʻihonua Bridge.
In the Mountain View area, there was also minor flooding on Mauna Loa Drive, and he said crews were keeping an eye on streams and bridges in the area — though didn’t report significant issues.
Alameda also reported minor flooding in Honokaʻa at the Kapehu Homestead in the makai crossing.
There were reports of a landslide and a fallen tree in ʻŌʻōkala on Old Māmalahoa Highway.
“We’re hanging in there, everybody. Mahalo for staying off the roads and heeding our warnings,” Alameda said in his video update.
Honoapiʻilani Highway on Maui reopens
Both lanes of Honoapiʻilani Highway between North Kīhei to Olowalu was reopened around 10:30 p.m. Saturday.
Officials warned motorists to use caution as they traveled through the area due to crews continuing to work on the brush fire in the area.
Hawai‘i County to resume normal operations on Sunday
The County of Hawai‘i said it will resume normal operations on Sunday as Hurricane Nolo moves away from Hawai‘i Island.
It said all solid waste facilities and county parks will open. The Hele-On bus routes 11, 40, 101, 201, 202, 204, and 401 are scheduled to run at 5:40 a.m. from Pāhala and 2:45 p.m. from Kona. The Paratransit and shared ride taxi programs will resume regular services too.
“We still could see rain and wind impacts through the weekend, so residents should remain cautious,” Mayor Kimo Alameda said in a statement. “Our first responders and partners remain ready to respond to any issues that may develop and we will continue to keep a close watch on this storm as it moves away from us. We appreciate our community for showing vigilance and thank our federal, state and nonprofit partners for their ongoing collaboration.”
One lane reopens on Honoapiʻilani Highway
The County of Maui said that as of 9:00 p.m., the makai lane of Honoapiʻilani Highway has reopened.
Contraflow traffic in alternating directions from North Kīhei Road to Olowalu General Store is taking place through the reopened lane.
The highway was closed Saturday afternoon as fire crews worked to extinguish a brush fire in the area.
Hawaiian Electric is monitoring wildfire risk conditions
Hawaiian Electric said it's monitoring high winds and dry conditions across its service areas as Hurricane Nolo continues to move westward south of the state.
HECO's Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) is in a watch condition, meaning if weather conditions intensify, the utility may proactively shut off power in communities with a high risk of wildfire.
Customers in these areas are urged to initiate their own emergency plans and prepare for the possibility of extended power outages.
The criteria for determining a PSPS are persistent drought conditions, wind gusts of 45 mph or higher, and relative humidity below 45%.
As of 7:30 p.m. Saturday, the utility said there are no major outages on Hawaiʻi Island or Oʻahu.
Power lines in the Olowau area of West Maui near the brushfire were de-energized, but the outage is not a PSPS. HECO says about 740 customers in the area could be without power overnight. Once the fire is out, crews need to inspect lines and equipment and possibly make repairs before power will be restored.
Maui brush fire update
The Lahaina Civic Center Gym has transitioned into an emergency shelter for those evacuating from the Olowalu Village area due to a brush fire.
Those impacted by the West Maui power outages can also shelter there. There are charging stations for personal electronics, but residents should bring their own bedding, food, water and other essentials.
As of 7:15 p.m., the evacuation order remains in effect for Olowalu residents between Luawai Street and Ehehene Street. Honoapiʻilani Highway remains closed from North Kīhei Road to Olowalu General Store.
The Maui Fire Department requested that Hawaiian Electric de-energized power lines servicing the area from Ukumehame to Lahainaluna Road to ensure firefighter safety.
County officials say the fire burned over 100 acres and was about 40% contained as of Saturday night.
A Saturday evening update from Hawaiʻi County Mayor Kimo Alameda
Hawaiʻi County Mayor Kimo Alameda said on Saturday evening that emergency officials were monitoring flood conditions in Kaʻū. He spoke with HPR at the Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense Agency’s headquarters in Hilo Bay.
Māmalahoa Highway, the main road through Kaʻū, is closed in Waiʻōhinu due to flooding and debris. Alameda said that nearby Nāʻālehu was also seeing heavy rainfall. Both communities experienced devastating impacts during Hurricane Lala.
The Central Pacific Hurricane Center said in its 5:00 p.m. update that Nolo had begun to move westward. This track is expected to continue through Sunday.
Rainfall potential has reduced significantly over the last two days, but Alameda said Hawaiʻi Island residents shouldn’t let their guard down yet.
“Right now, what we're seeing in Kaʻū, for example, is maybe 6 to 8 inches of rain. And you see how that amount can already be concerning. Please stay vigilant,” he said.
Landslide blocks Hana Highway lane near mile marker 13
A landslide has blocked the Hana-bound lane of Hana Highway near mile marker 13, according to the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation. Crews are responding to the scene.
Māmalahoa Highway closed in Waiohinu due to flooding, rocks
Māmalahoa Highway, Route 11, is fully closed in Waiʻōhinu because of flooding and rocks on the roadway.
The closure is between mile markers 65 and 66. Crews are responding to the area, according to the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation.
The highway is still open between Naʻālehu and Pāhala, but conditions will be monitored.
Hawaiʻi County shelters remain open at Naʻālehu Gym, Robert Herkes Gym in Pāhala and Ocean View Community Center.
Olowalu brush fire prompts evacuation as Nolo brings strong winds
A brush fire prompted an evacuation order for Olowalu Village in West Maui around 3 p.m. on Saturday amid hazardous weather caused by Hurricane Nolo.
People from Luawai to Ehehene streets were ordered to evacuate. First responders were on the scene. The fire was first reported at 1:57 p.m., and emergency sirens were sounded at 2:40 p.m., according to the Maui Emergency Management Agency.
Honoapiʻilani Highway is closed from North Kihei to Olowalu Store, 820 Olowalu Village Road, Lahaina.
Maui County officials opened shelters at the Lahaina Civic Center Gym in West Maui and the South Maui Community Park and Gym in Kīhei.
Brush fires are accelerated by strong winds that dry vegetation, provide fresh oxygen, and transport burning embers far to start new fires.
Kohala Mountain Road remains closed Saturday due to high winds
The Kohala Mountain Road remained closed to car traffic early Saturday afternoon.
Hawaiʻi County Mayor Kimo Alameda said on social media Friday that the mountain passage between Waimea and Hāwī was closed due to hazardous conditions, including high winds. Waimea experienced gusts of up to 60 mph on Friday night.
During Lala, a downed tree blocked both lanes of the mountain road.
‘A constant tug’: Shops in Hōlualoa decide whether to close for Nolo
As Nolo lingered south of Hawaiʻi Island on Saturday morning, local business owners had to make a call about whether to open their doors to customers.
The small village of Hōlualoa on the slopes of Hualālai is dotted with art galleries and boutiques. Its main restaurant, Holualoa Gardens, had a notice posted on its gate advising that it would be closed through Saturday due to the possibility of severe weather.
Next door, the boutique Petals & Provisions, which sells fresh flowers and an assortment of locally made goods, was open for business. The store’s owner, Mandi Cooperson, was behind the counter wrapping up flower arrangements.
Ahead of Hurricane Lala, Cooperson closed her storefront, as well as Kona Treehouse, her second boutique in town, preemptively to ensure her employees’ safety. Her building then lost power during the storm and had to stay closed for three days. Between the loss of goods — including the Petal & Provision’s highly perishable fresh flowers — and losing income from customers, Cooperson estimates Lala cost her businesses at least $10,000.
This time, Cooperson told HPR she had decided to stay open as weather allowed. On Saturday, customers filtered through the shop as the sun shone overhead, but Cooperson wasn’t at ease.
“It feels like a constant tug of whether I'm making the right decision or not,” she said.
About 30 Hawaiʻi Island customers without power, no major outages on Oʻahu or Maui Nui
As of 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Hawaiian Electric said it was restoring power to about 30 Hawaiʻi Island customers in the Lower Puna area.
That is down from the more than 600 customers across the island who were out of service four hours earlier.
The electric utility said that there were no major outages in Maui County or on Oʻahu.
Click here for HECO's outage maps.
What to expect, island by island:
The Central Pacific Hurricane Center said Saturday at 11 a.m. that Nolo had begun moving west away from Hawaiʻi Island. Tropical storm conditions are still occurring and will continue Saturday night, especially in areas of steep terrain.
Hawaiʻi Island:
The hurricane watch was dropped at 11 a.m. Saturday, but a tropical storm warning, flood watch and high surf advisory remain in effect.
Saturday will be cloudy and very windy, with showers, isolated thunderstorms and heavy rain. Severe flooding and mudslides are possible, especially in steep areas of eastern and southern Hawaiʻi Island. Sunday will remain cloudy and windy, though conditions should ease, with scattered showers possible. Large, damaging swells are also likely along east- and south-facing shores this weekend.
Maui Nui:
A tropical storm watch remains in effect for Maui, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi and Kahoʻolawe, where terrain-enhanced tropical storm-force winds and gusts are occurring.
Saturday will be mostly cloudy and very windy, with scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms. East winds of 25 to 40 mph, with gusts up to 60 mph, are expected. A flood watch remains in effect because heavy rain could cause localized flooding and mudslides, particularly in steep areas of eastern and southern Maui. A high surf advisory remains in effect for east-facing shores of Maui and Molokaʻi.
Oʻahu and Kauaʻi:
Windy, mostly cloudy conditions with isolated showers are expected this weekend. A wind advisory remains in effect for Oʻahu, Kauaʻi and Niʻihau until 6 p.m. Sunday. East winds of 25 to 35 mph, with gusts up to 55 mph, are expected, with the strongest winds on Oʻahu over and downwind of terrain.
The National Weather Service warns winds this strong can damage shingles, knock down tree branches, blow away tents and make driving difficult. A high surf advisory remains in effect for east-facing shores of Oʻahu and Kauaʻi, with wave heights expected to increase Saturday night.
Hurricane watch for Hawaiʻi Island ends
The hurricane watch for Hawaiʻi Island has been discontinued as Hurricane Nolo moves west of the island.
At 11 a.m., the Central Pacific Hurricane Center said that storm's center was about 160 miles south of South Point, moving west at 5 mph.
Maximum sustained winds had slowed to 90 mph, making it a Category 1 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. Forecasters predict Nolo will strengthen to a major hurricane of Category 3 or higher on Sunday with peak intensity on Monday.
A tropical storm warning was still in effect for Hawaiʻi County, and Maui County remained under a tropical storm watch.
The hurricane center expected the center of Nolo to remain well south and southwest of the main Hawaiian Islands. A turn toward the northwest is forecast on Monday and Tuesday. "The models agree that Nolo will be clear of the main Hawaiian Islands by the time it makes this turn," CPHC said in its forecast.
Hawaiʻi Island outages affect about 626 customers
As of 7:30 a.m., Hawaiian Electric crews were working to restore power to about 626 customers on Hawaiʻi Island, with outages reported in Ocean View, Hāmākua, Lower Puna, Kaʻū and North Kohala.
There were no major outages on Maui or Oʻahu, with crews addressing outages affecting fewer than 40 customers in each county.
Hawaiian Electric said saturated ground from recent rainfall is increasing the risk of falling trees and vegetation damaging electrical equipment, even in areas that are not seeing the strongest winds.
Nolo moving slowly to the west
After hours in roughly the same place, Hurricane Nolo is now moving slowly west, with the center of the eye well south of Hawaʻi Island.
In its 8 a.m. Saturday update, the Central Pacific Hurricane Center said the storm was moving at about 3 mph with the storm's eye about 145 miles away from South Point.
Forecasts said the storm should accelerate westward through the weekend before turning northwest on Monday.
The Category 2 hurricane was still packing maximum sustained winds of 100 mph.
Nolo nearly stationary, expected to turn west
Hurricane Nolo was still meandering south of Hawaiʻi Island Saturday morning, and forecasters believe it will start moving west with increased forward speed later in the day or Sunday.
The storm was about 145 miles away from South Point at 5 a.m.
It remained a Category 2 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 105 mph.
Kohala Mountain Road closed due to high winds
Wind has picked up, particularly in Kohala on Hawaiʻi Island, and county officials have closed Kohala Mountain Road, also known as Highway 250, from mile marker 0 near Hawaiʻi Preparatory Academy to mile marker 20.
Hawaiʻi County Mayor Kimo Alameda posted a social media video late Friday night with the latest on the Big Island.
The county had 10 shelters open with 44 occupants riding out the storm.
And weather is not the only thing the county was tracking: Kīlauea's volcanic episode 55 could be starting up.
Hurricane Nolo remains nearly stationary
A 2:00 a.m. Saturday update from the Central Pacific Hurricane Center shows Hurricane Nolo's eye remains about 145 miles south of South Point on Hawaiʻi Island.
The forecast track anticipates Nolo will move westward soon.
Sustained winds are still measuring 105 mph, keeping it as a Category 2 hurricane.
Nolo is expected to strengthen into a major hurricane on Saturday and peak in intensity by late Sunday. Weakening is expected on Monday.
Hurricane Nolo makes minimal movement
An 11:00 p.m. Friday update from the Central Pacific Hurricane Center shows Nolo moved only five miles in a few hours.
The eye of the Category 2 hurricane was located about 145 miles south of South Point on Hawaiʻi Island. Sustained winds remain at 105 mph.
Nolo is expected to strengthen over the next couple of days, but forecasters said the center of the storm should remain well south of the state.
Regardless of the exact track, strong and gusty winds are expected for all the islands through the weekend.
Tropical storm-force wind gusts are already being measured in areas of steep terrain across Maui County.
High winds close a Hawaiʻi Island roadway
Hawaiʻi Island Police have closed Kohala Mountain Road in North Kohala from mile marker 0 near the Hawai'i Preparatory Academy campus to mile marker 20 due to high winds.
Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense says alternate routes should be used if there's a need to travel.
Hurricane Nolo nearly stationary
The Central Pacific Hurricane Center said that Hurricane Nolo was nearly stationary as of 8:00 p.m. Friday.
A westward motion with increasing forward speed is forecast over Saturday and Sunday.
Sustained winds for Hurricane Nolo are still measuring at 105 mph with stronger gusts.
The eye of the Category 2 hurricane was located 150 miles south of South Point on Hawaiʻi Island.
Flight cancellations to and from Hawaiʻi Island
Flights to and from Hawaiʻi Island have been cancelled ahead of the heaviest impacts anticipated from Hurricane Nolo.
The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation hasn't closed the Hilo International Airport or the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport as of Friday evening.
Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines canceled many flights to and from Hilo for Friday night and Saturday.
Passengers should check with their air carrier for the status of their flight before arriving at the airport.
Outer bands of Nolo are starting to affect Hawaiʻi Island
In a 5:00 p.m. Friday update from the Central Pacific Hurricane Center, forecasters said the outer bands from Hurricane Nolo were starting to impact Hawaiʻi Island.
Nolo also increased in strength, with sustained winds measured at nearly 105 mph, making it a Category 2 hurricane.
The hurricane also continues to move on a very slow track, heading northward at nearly 3 mph. It's expected to stay on this track with a decrease in forward speed through Friday night.
A turn towards the west with an increase in forward speed is still forecast to happen over Saturday and Sunday. On the forecast track, the center of Nolo will remain well south of the main Hawaiian Islands, but the outer bands will still bring heavy rain and strong winds to parts of the state.
Swells generated by Nolo are expected to reach exposed east- and south-facing shores of Hawaiʻi Island, then spread westward and build through the weekend. These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.
Historic Manago Hotel prepares to weather another storm
The historic Manago Hotel and Restaurant has weathered many storms since it first opened in 1917. But hotel manager Jaren Niimi said this year, the hits just keep coming.
The Manago, perched just off Mamalahoa Highway in Captain Cook, flooded during the spring Kona Low storms. Then an earthquake rocked the area in May. The hotel withstood the shaking, but nearby homes were destroyed.
Now, Niimi is prepping the building and its guests for Hawaiʻi Island’s second hurricane in less than two months. He told HPR on Friday afternoon that he had the necessary preparations in place. “I have all the generators set up, extra bottled water, extra dry food if we need it, so things (will) still be taken care of if the disaster really gets bad,” he said.
Nāʻālehu residents stock up on fuel ahead of Hurricane Nolo
People are preparing for Hurricane Nolo by filling up cars and portable containers with gas. In Nāʻālehu, a line of cars was seen at the town’s 76 gas station on Friday afternoon.
Longtime Nāʻālehu resident Joe Steele was one of many filling up gas cans. After Lala, stores across the island reported shortages of gas cans, propane tanks and generators to HPR.
HOPE Services Hawaiʻi helps people experiencing homelessness ahead of Nolo
HOPE Services Hawaiʻi, a nonprofit, helped connect people experiencing homelessness with shelter and distributed food and tarps to those who remained outdoors ahead of the storm.
The nonprofit said that as of Friday afternoon it had reached out to about 107 people on the east side of Hawaiʻi Island and transported 20 people to emergency shelters.
Trump approves emergency declaration for Hawaiʻi ahead of Nolo
President Donald Trump has approved a federal emergency declaration for the state of Hawaiʻi ahead of Hurricane Nolo's arrival.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency aid that federal disaster assistance will be available to supplement response efforts due to conditions from Nolo from Sept. 23 on.
The assistance is for the state's four major counties.
In a release, FEMA said it can assist with equipment and resources during an emergency, and that emergency protective measures will be provided at 75% federal funding.
Nearly 100 Red Cross responders deployed ahead of Nolo
The American Red Cross is preparing to help communities affected by Hurricane Nolo and has deployed nearly 100 disaster responders to Hawaiʻi Island ahead of the storm.
The Red Cross is coordinating with local officials and other partners as Nolo approaches, according to a news release. Residents in the storm’s path are advised to have an emergency plan, gather essential supplies and be prepared to evacuate if instructed by officials.
During the hurricane, residents should follow evacuation orders and bring their emergency go-kits and pets. People should never walk, swim or drive through floodwaters and should move to higher ground before flooding begins. Those who are not advised to evacuate should shelter in an interior room away from windows and doors, and everyone should stay away from beaches and shorelines where dangerous waves are possible.
The Red Cross also recommends downloading its free emergency app for weather alerts, shelter locations and safety information, as well as its First Aid app for guidance if emergency medical help is delayed.
Hawaiʻi County solid waste facilities, parks will stay closed Saturday
The County of Hawaiʻi offices and non-emergency services and operations will continue to be closed on Saturday. That includes solid waste facilities, parks and recreation facilities, and mass transit routes.
Big Island residents can sign up for Civil Defense emergency alerts online or by texting “HAWAIIALERTS” to 888777.
“As we track Hurricane Nolo, our primary concern remains the potential for life-threatening flash flooding and tropical storm force winds,” said Mayor Kimo Alameda in a press release. “Those impacts could increase significantly if the storm moves further north than currently expected, so we continue to ask all of our residents to remain storm ready."
Nolo's slow speed raises risks for Hawaiʻi Island
Hurricane Nolo is edging slowly to the northwest at just 5 miles per hour. This sluggish pace raises the potential for heavier rains and larger surf, said Alison Nugent, an associate professor of atmospheric sciences at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa.
Nolo might continuously pound “the same area over and over” with rain as the storm crawls past Hawaiʻi Island, Nugent said. The larger surf could result because waves are formed when winds blow over the ocean and longer-lasting winds mean bigger surf.
There are additional risks to infrastructure.
“A telephone pole might withstand the first few hours, but prolonged exposure can also lead to structural fatigue,” Nugent said.
Hawaiʻi DOT to post road closures as Nolo approaches
Downed trees still line the highway leading to Ocean View on Hawaiʻi Island after Hurricane Lala hit the area just over a month ago.
As residents brace for Hurricane Nolo, the state Department of Transportation said it will keep the public informed about road closures via social media.
Social platforms include:
- Facebook - facebook.com/HawaiiDepartmentOfTransportation
- X - @DOTHawaii
- Instagram - @hawaiidot
What to expect, island by island:
Hawaiʻi Island:
Windward and southeast Hawaiʻi Island could see powerful gusts, heavy rain, flash flooding and mudslides starting Friday night. Tropical storm conditions are expected Friday night, with hurricane conditions possible Saturday, especially in steep terrain. Rainfall totals of 15 to 30 inches are expected, with up to 35 inches in isolated areas. Large, damaging swells are also possible along portions of the coast. Nolo is expected to turn west Friday night and move away Saturday, but the amount of rain will depend on how close the storm gets before turning.
Maui:
The heaviest rain is expected Saturday and could continue into Sunday, with life-threatening flooding and mudslides possible, especially in eastern and southern Maui. Maui County is under a tropical storm watch, with tropical storm conditions possible Saturday. Rainfall totals of 5 to 10 inches are expected, with up to 20 inches in isolated areas.
Oʻahu and Kauaʻi:
Oʻahu and Kauaʻi are expected to see less rain — between 1 to 6 inches — and isolated flooding is possible. Winds will increase Friday afternoon and evening. A wind advisory is in effect for Niʻihau, Kauaʻi and Oʻahu from Saturday morning through Sunday evening.
For more information about the forest for each island, click on HPR's story: What to expect on each island this weekend.
Hawaiʻi Island bus service canceled for Saturday, but shuttle to shelter will run
The County of Hawaiʻi Mass Transit Agency has canceled all fixed route, paratransit and on-demand Hele-On bus services for Saturday, Sept. 26.
On Friday, a mass transit shuttle will take people seeking shelter from Nāʻālehu Elementary Gym to Robert Herkes Gym from 2 to 6 p.m.
Click here for a full list of shelters.
Fearing flooded roads, Big Island resident leaves home ahead of Nolo
Britta Jacobson was taking shelter under a pavilion at Mānuka Natural Area Reserve near Ocean View midday on Friday. She had loaded up her truck with supplies and left her home in Nāʻālehu earlier that morning.
During Hurricane Lala, the road out of Jacobson’s subdivision, Green Sands, was completely washed out. Jacobson worried that if Nolo hit with the same force as Lala, she could get trapped.
“Those floodwaters just literally took the pavement off the road,” she told HPR.
She opted not to go to the county shelter at the Nāʻālehu Elementary School gym out of concern that the community could be cut off, and she wanted to make sure she could get to her adult son, who lives in Ocean View and struggles with anxiety.
It was hot and still at Mānuka on Friday morning. If the weather turned, Jacobson said she planned to head to her son’s house or the Ocean View Community Center, which opened as a shelter on Friday morning. Until then, she planned to sit tight and watch the horizon for Nolo.
“I hope it just stays down and avoids all the islands,” she said
Hurricane Nolo expected to strengthen in coming days
Hurricane Nolo is moving slowly north toward Hawaiʻi Island and was about 175 miles south of South Point late Friday morning. The storm is expected to turn west Friday night and move away from the Big Island by Saturday.
The Central Pacific Hurricane Center said Nolo currently has maximum sustained winds of about 105 mph, making it a Category 2 hurricane.
The storm could briefly weaken or hold steady over the next day because of increasing wind shear and dry air, but forecasters expect the hurricane to strengthen after that as shear decreases and ocean heat increases. The hurricane is expected to become very strong over the next two to three days before weakening on day 4 or 5.
Hawaiʻi National Guard deploys 430 ahead of Hurricane Nolo
The Hawaiʻi National Guard has 430 people in place on four islands to be ready for Hurricane Nolo. One-quarter of them are on Hawaiʻi Island. Others are on Kauaʻi, Maui and Oʻahu.
Each of these islands has teams who can drive high-wheeled vehicles through floodwaters to rescue people.
“It's gonna be flash flooding on Friday and Saturday, mostly on the Big Island,” Gov. Josh Green said in a video posted to social media. “And, that's where we're gonna see the biggest storm impact.”
Hawaiʻi County offers sandbag supplies ahead of Nolo
Hawaiʻi County is making sand available at locations around the island as Hurricane Nolo approaches and could bring heavy rain and flash flooding.
The county Department of Public Works is providing sandpiles so residents can make their own sandbags. Residents must bring their own empty sandbags, which are available at hardware and home improvement stores. Sandbags can be used to create temporary barriers to help block and redirect minor floodwaters away from doors, garages and other low-lying entry points.
The county advises residents in flood-prone areas to have sandbags in place before flooding begins. Sand is available while supplies last, and residents are asked to take only what they need. Sandpile locations are available through the county’s website.
Hurricane Nolo strengthens to Category 2 hurricane
Hurricane Nolo strengthened to a Category 2 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale at 8:35 a.m. Friday.
The Central Pacific Hurricane Center said data from an Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunter aircraft indicated maximum sustained winds have increased to 105 mph.
The center of Hurricane Nolo was moving north-northeast at near 5 mph and was about 180 miles south of South Point on Hawaiʻi Island.
Forecasters believe the storm will become a major hurricane of Category 3 or higher this weekend.
The storm is expected to turn west on Sunday, with the center "a fair distance south of Hawaiʻi," the CPHC said.
Hawaiʻi Island is under a hurricane watch and tropical storm warning, and Maui Nui is under a tropical storm watch.
Nolo continues to gain strength
The Central Pacific Hurricane Center said that Hurricane Nolo gained strength Thursday night.
Data from an Air Force Reserve reconnaissance aircraft measured maximum sustained winds that have increased to nearly 80 mph. Additional strengthening is forecast, and Nolo is expected to become a major hurricane on Saturday.
Nolo is located roughly 240 miles south of South Point on Hawaiʻi Island as of 11:00 p.m. Thursday.
It's moving toward the north-northeast at roughly 5 mph. This general track with a decrease in forward speed is expected through late Friday. A turn toward the west-northwest and west with an increase in forward speed is forecast Saturday and Sunday.
Forecasters say on its current track, the center of Nolo will remain well south of the main Hawaiian Islands.
Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 40 miles from the center of the storm. Tropical storm force winds extend outward up to 105 miles from the center.
Tropical storm conditions are expected to begin by late Friday for Hawaiʻi County, with hurricane conditions possible by early Saturday. Some areas of the island could see up to 35 inches of rainfall over the weekend.
Nolo officially becomes a hurricane
The Central Pacific Hurricane Center said Air Force reconnaissance found Nolo had strengthened into a hurricane late Thursday afternoon with sustained winds of 75 mph. Hurricane-force winds extend up to 30 miles outward from the storm's center.
Further intensification is expected and Nolo will likely become a major hurricane by this weekend as it moves closer to the state.
As of Thursday evening, the hurricane is moving toward the north-northeast at about 5 mph. A faster movement to the north-northeast is expected later Thursday night through Friday, followed by a sharp westward turn on Saturday just to the south of Hawaiʻi Island.
Tropical storm conditions are expected to begin by late Friday for Hawaiʻi Island, with hurricane conditions possible by early Saturday.
Haleakalā National Park closes as Nolo approaches
Both districts of Haleakalā National Park will close Thursday evening — Kīpahulu District at 4 p.m. and Summit District at 8 p.m., according to the National Park Service.
Sunrise reservations for Friday and Saturday have been canceled. Frontcountry and backcountry camping are canceled for Thursday through Saturday. Officials said the park would reopen when it was safe. Updates about park closures and reopenings will be available on the park’s website and social media platforms.
Maui County to open 5 shelters ahead of storm
The County of Maui will open emergency shelters at 12 noon on Friday ahead of Tropical Storm Nolo.
Emergency shelters are equipped with charging stations for personal electronic devices.
Residents should bring their own bedding, food, drinking water, medications, charging cables and other essential items. Pets are allowed but must be in crates.
Eligible paratransit riders can make a reservation to reach a shelter on Friday. Call Maui Economic Opportunity Transportation at 808-877-7651 for more information.
Emergency shelters are located at:
- WEST MAUI: Lahaina Civic Center Gym, 1840 Honoapiʻilani Highway, Lahaina
- SOUTH MAUI: South Maui Community Park Gymnasium, 1501 Liloa Drive, Kīhei
- UPCOUNTRY: Mayor Hannibal Tavares Community Center, 91 Pukalani St., Pukalani
- HĀNA: Hāna High & Elementary School, 4111 Hāna Highway
- MOLOKAʻI: Kilohana Recreation Center, 344 Kamehameha V Highway, Kaunakakai
Maui County offices to close Friday
Maui County offices will be closed Friday, Sept. 25, as Tropical Storm Nolo is forecast to approach the islands.
The county is under a tropical storm watch and Maui Nui could see heavy rain, high winds and flash flooding, especially in East Maui, according to the National Weather Service.
The Kalana O Maui, or County Building, will open briefly from 8:45-9:15 a.m. so the Maui County Council can meet and order a recess to its Sept. 25 meeting.
More Hawaiʻi Island shelters to open Friday morning
The County of Hawaiʻi will be opening additional shelters at 6 a.m. Friday in anticipation of Tropical Storm Nolo.
Shelter occupants are encouraged to bring their own food, water and necessary medicine. Shelters are pet friendly but occupants must bring a crate and a leash.
Shelters Currently Open
- Yano Hall, 82-6156 Māmalahoa Highway, Captain Cook
- Nāʻālehu Elementary School gym, 95-5545 Mamalahoa Highway, Nāʻālehu
- Robert N. Herkes Gym, 96-1219 Kamani St., Pāhala
- Keaʻau Armory, 16-512 Volcano Road, Keaʻau
Shelters Opening Friday, Sept. 25 at 6 a.m.
- Honoka‘a Gym, 45-541 Lehua St., Honoka‘a
- Pāpa‘aloa Park Annex, 35-1994 Government Main Road, Pāpa‘aloa
- Pu‘u‘eo Community Center, 145 Wainaku St., Hilo
- Kahilu Town Hall, 67-1182 Lindsey Road, Waimea
- Ocean View Community Center, 92-8924 Leilani Circle, Ocean View
HECO readies for Nolo as crews return home
Hawaiian Electric said its workers have returned to their home islands after helping KIUC with restoring power to Kauaʻi customers.
"Equipment is already on its way, and some equipment has already been returned to where it started from," said Jim Kelly, VP for government and community relations and corporate communications at HECO. "So we are in a good spot, in particular on Hawaiʻi Island, and as always, we'll have our crews from Oʻahu and Maui as well available to go over there depending on the outcome of the storm."
Kelly spoke with The Conversation's Catherine Cruz about HECO's storm prep.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park areas to close on Thursday
Nearly all recreational areas, including backcountry camping grounds and trails, in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park will be closed by 5 p.m. on Thursday.
The park is keeping Kilauea Military Camp lodging, Volcano House and the Nāmakanipaio A-frame cabins open for registered guests. Park lodgers are advised to stay inside as storm weather conditions progress.
Park staff are monitoring Nolo and will reopen areas when conditions allow. Find the latest alerts from HVNP here.
The north vent in Halemaʻumaʻu crater has been intermittently overflowing since Tuesday. The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation advises residents and visitors to be mindful of tephra emissions should they occur, as tephra can make roadways slick when wet. Track Kīlauea's activity here.
How did Nolo get its name?
Lala, Moke and Nolo. Three storms have been given Hawaiian names this hurricane season thus far. The names are picked from a list reserved for storms that form in the Central North Pacific Ocean.
How was the list of storm names decided? HPR took a look at the history behind naming Hawaiian hurricanes in a story that first aired in 2014.
The story is by former HPR reporter Molly Solomon. Molly is still in public radio and is the senior editor of KQED's California Politics and Government Desk in San Francisco.
Hawaiʻi Island residents should finish storm preparations ASAP
Officials say storm preparations on Hawaiʻi Island need to be completed as soon as possible. Heavy rain coverage and intensity from Tropical Storm Nolo are expected to increase Thursday into Friday.
The Central Pacific Hurricane Center said Nolo is forecast to become a hurricane by tonight and a major hurricane by this weekend.
As of midday Thursday, Nolo is moving toward the north at nearly 2 mph. A faster motion to the north or north-northeast is expected later Thursday through Friday, followed by a sharp westward turn on Saturday in the vicinity of Hawaiʻi Island.
Current maximum sustained winds are near 70 mph with some higher gusts.
Tropical storm conditions are expected to begin Friday night for Hawaiʻi Island, with hurricane conditions possible on Saturday, especially in areas with steep terrain. Nolo is expected to pass near or just south of Hawaiʻi Island on Saturday.
Officials are warning that rainfall from Nolo could produce life-threatening flooding and mudslides, especially in areas with steep terrain. For Hawaiʻi Island, rainfall totals of 15 to 30 inches with up to 35 inches in isolated areas are anticipated.
For Maui, rainfall totals of 5 to 10 inches with up to 20 inches in isolated areas are expected.
Across the remainder of the Hawaiian Islands, rainfall totals of 1 to 3 inches, with some areas seeing up to 6 inches and isolated flooding are possible.
Forecasters say that large, damaging swells are likely along portions of Hawaiʻi Island's coastlines this weekend as well.
A tropical storm warning and a hurricane watch have been issued for Hawaiʻi Island. A tropical storm watch has been issued for Maui County. A flood watch is in place across the state.
Parks, trails and camping closed on Maui, Hawaiʻi Island and Molokaʻi
State officials from the Department of Land and Natural Resources said they will be closing all parks, camping, forest reserves, hiking trails, wildlife sanctuaries, natural area reserves, hunting and game management areas on Maui, Hawaiʻi Island and Molokaʻi due to Tropical Storm Nolo.
On Hawaiʻi Island, closures begin Thursday, Sept. 24, and on Maui and Molokaʻi closures will begin on Friday, Sept. 25.
Issuance of all state forest and state park camping permits has also been suspended until further notice.
Wind speeds pick up, heavy rainfall could hit Hawaiʻi Island Thursday night
Tropical Storm Nolo continues to strengthen, now packing maximum sustained winds of 60 mph. The Central Pacific Hurricane Center heavy rain could begin falling on Hawaiʻi Island late Thursday
As of 5 a.m., the storm was stationary, located about 285 miles from South Point on the Big Island. It was expected to move to the north or north-northeast later today through Friday, followed by a sharp turn to the west by Saturday.
Forecasters said, "The big question is how close does Nolo get before making that turn, with notable run-to-run inconsistencies in much of the guidance. Similar to the last cycle, the bulk of the models have shifted slightly northward, and the new NHC forecast is moved in that direction. This remains a more uncertain forecast than normal given the large unresolved north-south spread, with other possible complicating terrain influences of the Big Island (like we saw with Hurricane Lala last month)."
Hawaiʻi Island remains under a hurricane watch, and the entire state was under a flood watch through Saturday afternoon.
Nolo intensifies as it begins to turn north
Tropical Storm Nolo started turning toward the north late Wednesday night.
The storm was moving at 2 mph and was expected to keep moving north through Friday, followed by a sharp westward turn Friday night into Saturday as it nears Hawaiʻi Island.
At 11 p.m. Wednesday, forecasters from the Central Pacific Hurricane Center said the storm had picked up speed to 50 mph. They said the storm may be a major hurricane by the weekend.
"Environmental conditions remain favorable for strengthening, with very warm sea surface temperatures and plenty of mid-level moisture along the forecast track," the center said in its 11p.m. update.
Courts on Hawaiʻi Island and Maui Nui to close because of storm
State courts and judiciary operations on Hawaiʻi Island (Third Circuit) will close Thursday and Friday due to anticipated severe weather from Tropical Storm Nolo.
The courts will close on Maui, Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi (Second Circuit) on Friday.
Oʻahu (First Circuit) and Kauaʻi (Fifth Circuit) are expected to remain open. All hearings and trials set during the closures will be rescheduled.
More information can be found at the Hawaiʻi State Judiciary's website.
Forecasters expect Nolo to take a sharp turn north late tonight
Forecasters with the National Weather Service's Central Pacific Hurricane Center said Tropical Storm Nolo was holding steady with maximum sustained winds and was expected to turn northward overnight. A hurricane watch remained in effect for Hawaiʻi County.
As of 8 p.m. Wednesday, the storm was 295 miles south of South Point on the Big Island, heading west-northwest at 7 mph.
Nolo had maximum sustained winds of 45 mph. Tropical storm force winds extend up to 80 miles from the center.
The Central Pacific Hurricane Center warned of rainfall totals of 15 to 20 inches across Hawaiʻi Island, with maximum amounts of 35 inches. On Maui, rainfall totals of 5 to 10 inches with up to 20 inches in some places may be seen. Other parts of the state could see rain as well.
Forecasters also said a storm surge and the tide could reach up to 3 feet on Hawaiʻi Island.
Hawaiʻi Island schools, state and county offices close Thursday ahead of Nolo
The governor announced Wednesday evening that state and county offices, Hawaiʻi State Department of Education public schools and University of Hawai‘i campuses and facilities on Hawaiʻi Island will close Thursday and Friday. On Friday, closures of state and county offices, public schools and UH campuses and facilities will expand to Maui County.
Gov. Josh Green also submitted a request for a federal emergency declaration, which would cover all four counties. The request seeks support for a range of disaster-related measures at a 75% federal cost share.
“We are closing offices and schools on Hawaiʻi Island starting Thursday to give families time to prepare — and we are expanding those closures to Maui County on Friday as Nolo moves further along its projected track,” Green said in a news release. “The safety of our people must come first. Please complete your preparations, avoid unnecessary travel and follow all instructions from emergency officials.”
The County of Hawaiʻi is closing its offices all park facilities, and Hele-On services. Solid waste facilities that are scheduled to be open on Thursday will remain open.
“Our administration has been closely monitoring the development of Nolo, and in coordination with the State, we are suspending non-emergency operations to protect public safety and to give our residents time to prepare,” Hawaiʻi Island Mayor Kimo Alameda said in a statement. “We ask residents to take this storm seriously, ensure that you have safe shelter, be prepared for flooding and power outages, and avoid non-essential travel during inclement weather.”
Shelters open on Hawaiʻi Island
Hawaiʻi County opened three shelters at 6 p.m. Wednesday:
- Yano Hall, 82-6156 Māmalahoa Highway, Captain Cook
- Nāʻālehu Elementary School gym, 95-5545 Mamalahoa Highway, Nāʻālehu
- Robert N. Herkes Gym, 96-1219 Kamani St., Pāhala
- Keaʻau Armory, 16-512 Volcano Road, Keaʻau
For residents of Waiʻōhinu and Nāʻālehu who may prefer to leave the Nāʻālehu area and seek shelter at the Herkes Gym in Pāhala, the County of Hawaiʻi is providing free shuttle bus service from Nāʻālehu Gym to Robert Herkes Gym.
The county asks those seeking shelter must bring their own food, water, and any necessary medicine. Shelters are pet friendly but residents must bring a carrier.
Residents of south Hawaiʻi Island who want to evacuate the area ahead of Nolo can call 211 and be placed in non-congregate sheltering.
Hawaiʻi County asks public to store water in case of electricity disruptions
The Hawaiʻi County Department of Water Supply advised the public to prepare as electrical power disruptions may interrupt water service.
"Customers are encouraged to store an emergency supply of drinking water and conserve DWS water beginning now," the Hawaiʻi County Department of Water Supply said in a release. "Tap water should be used only for essential needs, such as drinking, cooking and personal hygiene, until weather conditions improve. Conserving drinking water helps maintain adequate storage in DWS tanks for essential needs and emergency fire protection."