Storm updates: Hurricane watch issued for Papahānaumokuākea as Nolo moves away from main Hawaiian Islands
September 23, 2026 at 8:22 PM HST
The latest on Hurricane Nolo:
- 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. It's expected to steadily weaken afterwards.
- A hurricane watch has been issued for portions of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument as Nolo moves toward this area.
- The National Weather Service issued a high wind warning for portions of Hawaiʻi Island and Maui County until 6 p.m. Sunday.
- Strong and gusty winds are possible for all the Hawaiian Islands through Sunday.
- A high-surf warning is in effect for south-facing shores of Hawaiʻi Island through Sunday morning.
- A high-surf advisory is in place for east-facing shores of Hawaiʻi Island, Maui, Molokaʻi, Oʻahu and Kauaʻi.
- More rain will develop over Kauaʻi mid-week as trailing moisture from Hurricane Nolo becomes established over the island.
- Residents and visitors can sign up for emergency alerts here.
- Click here for the list of emergency shelters on Hawaiʻi Island.
HPR is updating this page as new information becomes available. Bookmark this webpage and check back regularly for the latest guidance.
Low bandwidth or slow connectivity? View this page as text only as well as our our entire website at hawaiipublicradio.org/text.
Low bandwidth or slow connectivity? View this page as text only as well as our our entire website at hawaiipublicradio.org/text.
Haleakalā National Park reopens both districts after Nolo
By Emma Caires
Posted September 27, 2026 at 1:37 PM HST
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
By Cassie Ordonio
Posted September 27, 2026 at 1:15 PM HST
HOPE Services Hawaiʻi staff were out on the Big Island Friday, Sept. 25, 2026, helping people experiencing homelessness prepare for Hurricane Nolo. (3024x4032, AR: 0.75)
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.
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.
Parts of Hawaiʻi Island asked to limit water to essential use only
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 27, 2026 at 11:37 AM HST
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.
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
By Michelle Broder Van Dyke
Posted September 27, 2026 at 11:28 AM HST
This graphic shows the probable path of Hurricane Nolo as of Sunday at 11 a.m. (897x736, AR: 1.21875)
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.
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 27, 2026 at 11:18 AM HST
Parts of Māmalahoa Highway (Route 11) in Waiʻōhinu flooded as Hurricane Nolo passed by on Saturday night. <br/> (3019x2005, AR: 1.5057356608478802)
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.
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
By Tori DeJournett
Posted September 27, 2026 at 10:13 AM HST
HECO's Nāʻālehu substation on Hawaiʻi Island on Sept. 25, 2026. (4032x3024, AR: 1.3333333333333333)
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.
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
By Emma Caires
Posted September 27, 2026 at 9:56 AM HST
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.
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
By Catherine Cluett Pactol
Posted September 27, 2026 at 8:55 AM HST
A screenshot of the Maui power outage map from Hawaiian Electric on Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026. (650x566, AR: 1.1484098939929328)
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.
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
By Pixie Clay
Posted September 27, 2026 at 12:22 AM HST
An infrared image of Hurricane Nolo south of Hawaiʻi late Saturday night. (1800x1080, AR: 1.6666666666666667)
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.
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 26, 2026 at 11:16 PM HST
Members of the Hawaiʻi Army National Guard work with other emergency officials as rainwater from nearby Hurricane Nolo floods a section of Māmalahoa Highway Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, near Nāʻālehu, Hawaiʻi Island. (4634x3089, AR: 1.5001618646811266)
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.
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 26, 2026 at 11:02 PM HST
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.
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
By Mark Ladao
Posted September 26, 2026 at 9:55 PM HST
A sign for the Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense Agency’s headquarters in Hilo. (4032x3024, AR: 1.3333333333333333)
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.”
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
By Pixie Clay
Posted September 26, 2026 at 9:31 PM HST
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.
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 26, 2026 at 8:20 PM HST
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.
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 26, 2026 at 7:45 PM HST
(768x495, AR: 1.5515151515151515)
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.
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
By Savannah Harriman-Pote, Tori DeJournett
Posted September 26, 2026 at 5:35 PM HST
Alameda Saturday PM Update
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.
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 26, 2026 at 4:00 PM HST
Landslide blocks Maui's Hana Highway lane near mile marker 13 on Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026, during Hurricane Nolo. (1536x2048, AR: 0.75)
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.
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 26, 2026 at 3:59 PM HST
Māmalahoa Highway, Route 11, was fully closed in Waiʻōhinu on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, around 3:30 p.m. because of flooding and rocks on the roadway. (4032x3024, AR: 1.3333333333333333)
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.
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 26, 2026 at 3:39 PM HST
A brush fire on Saturday in Olowalu in West Maui. (1024x768, AR: 1.3333333333333333)
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.
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
By Savannah Harriman-Pote, Tori DeJournett
Posted September 26, 2026 at 2:26 PM HST
Kohala Mountain Road remains closed to traffic early Saturday afternoon. (Sept. 26, 2026) (5712x4284, AR: 1.3333333333333333)
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.
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
By Savannah Harriman-Pote, Tori DeJournett
Posted September 26, 2026 at 1:01 PM HST
Untitled
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.
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
By Jason Ubay
Posted September 26, 2026 at 12:15 PM HST
Hawaiian Electric repaired several downed power lines in the high-elevation neighborhood of Kaloko Mauka after Hurricane Lala — some homes and businesses in the area were without power for more than a week. (5712x4284, AR: 1.3333333333333333)
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.
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:
Posted September 26, 2026 at 11:58 AM HST
A downed power line seen on Hawaiʻi Belt Road, also known as Māmalahoa Highway, on Friday, Sept. 25, as Hurricane Nolo neared Hawaiʻi Island.<br/> (5712x4284, AR: 1.3333333333333333)
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.
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
By Jason Ubay
Posted September 26, 2026 at 11:13 AM HST
The five-day forecast for Hurricane Nolo as of 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026. (897x736, AR: 1.21875)
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.
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 26, 2026 at 9:53 AM HST
HECO's Nāʻālehu substation on Hawaiʻi Island on Sept. 25, 2026. (4032x3024, AR: 1.3333333333333333)
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.
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
By Jason Ubay
Posted September 26, 2026 at 9:20 AM HST
Enhanced satellite imagery of Hurricane Nolo near the Hawaiian Islands on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026. (1200x1200, AR: 1.0)
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.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6mvyumyP8w
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.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6mvyumyP8w
Nolo nearly stationary, expected to turn west
By Jason Ubay
Posted September 26, 2026 at 5:14 AM HST
The latest five-day forecast for Hurricane Nolo shows the center of the storm moving west while well south of the islands. (Sept. 26, 2026) (897x736, AR: 1.21875)
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.
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
By Jason Ubay
Posted September 26, 2026 at 4:45 AM HST
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.
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
By Pixie Clay
Posted September 26, 2026 at 2:07 AM HST
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.
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
By Pixie Clay
Posted September 25, 2026 at 11:57 PM HST
A satellite image that shows the outer bands of Hurricane Nolo moving over the state late Friday night. (1800x1080, AR: 1.6666666666666667)
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.
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
By Pixie Clay
Posted September 25, 2026 at 10:05 PM HST
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.
Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense says alternate routes should be used if there's a need to travel.
Hurricane Nolo nearly stationary
By Pixie Clay
Posted September 25, 2026 at 8:59 PM HST
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.
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
By Pixie Clay
Posted September 25, 2026 at 6:57 PM HST
A list of mainly canceled flights are displayed at Hilo International Airport as Hurricane Nolo sits nearby Friday, Sept. 25, 2026, in Hilo, Hawaii. (5509x3673, AR: 1.499863871494691)
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.
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
By Pixie Clay
Posted September 25, 2026 at 5:35 PM HST
A satellite image that shows the outer bands of Hurricane Nolo starting to move over the state on Friday evening, Sept. 25, 2026. (1800x1080, AR: 1.6666666666666667)
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.
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
By Savannah Harriman-Pote, Tori DeJournett
Posted September 25, 2026 at 5:15 PM HST
The Manago Hotel and Restaurant located off of Mamalahoa Highway in Captain Cook on the afternoon of Friday, Sept. 25, 2026 ahead of Hurricane Nolo. (5712x4284, AR: 1.3333333333333333)
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.
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
By Savannah Harriman-Pote, Tori DeJournett
Posted September 25, 2026 at 4:35 PM HST
Untitled
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.
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
By Cassie Ordonio
Posted September 25, 2026 at 4:08 PM HST
HOPE Services Hawaiʻi staff were out on the Big Island Friday, Sept. 25, 2026, helping people experiencing homelessness prepare for Hurricane Nolo. (3024x2354, AR: 1.2846219201359388)
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.
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
By Jason Ubay
Posted September 25, 2026 at 2:59 PM HST
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.
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 25, 2026 at 2:24 PM HST
The American Red Cross set up at the Sgt. Rodney J.T. Yano Memorial Hall in Captain Cook, Hawaiʻi Island on Friday, Sept. 25, 2026. (4032x3024, AR: 1.3333333333333333)
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.
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 25, 2026 at 2:14 PM HST
County of Hawaiʻi crews clear a flood channel in Waiʻōhinu on Sept. 23, 2026. (4096x3072, AR: 1.3333333333333333)
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."
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
By Audrey McAvoy
Posted September 25, 2026 at 1:55 PM HST
A satellite image shows Hurricane Nolo near the Hawaiian Islands on the afternoon of Friday, Sept. 25, 2026.<br/> (1800x1080, AR: 1.6666666666666667)
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.
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
By Tori DeJournett
Posted September 25, 2026 at 1:53 PM HST
A downed tree is seen along Hawaiʻi Belt Road on Friday, Sept. 25, as residents and visitors brace for Hurricane Nolo. (4032x3024, AR: 1.3333333333333333)
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:
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:
By Michelle Broder Van Dyke
Posted September 25, 2026 at 1:30 PM HST
The view of South Point via a scenic point on Hawai'i Belt Road around 1 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, 2026 as Hurricane Nolo approached Hawaiʻi Island.<br/> (4032x3024, AR: 1.3333333333333333)
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:
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
By Jason Ubay
Posted September 25, 2026 at 12:45 PM HST
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.
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
By Savannah Harriman-Pote
Posted September 25, 2026 at 12:12 PM HST
Britta Jacobson on Friday, Sept. 25, 2026. (5712x4284, AR: 1.3333333333333333)
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
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
By Michelle Broder Van Dyke
Posted September 25, 2026 at 12:00 PM HST
This Hurricane Nolo graphic shows an approximate representation of areas under a hurricane warning (red), hurricane watch (pink), tropical storm warning (blue) and tropical storm watch (yellow). The orange circle indicates the current position of the center of the tropical cyclone. (897x736, AR: 1.21875)
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.
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
By Audrey McAvoy
Posted September 25, 2026 at 10:34 AM HST
Spc. Jayden Akahivida and Spc. Ariel Koyanagi-Perreira of the Hawaiʻi National Guard are seen on Maui staging a high-wheeled vehicle at Hana Fire Station on Thursday, Sept. 24, 2025. (1072x824, AR: 1.3009708737864079)
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.”
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
By Tori DeJournett
Posted September 25, 2026 at 10:21 AM HST
A sandpile is seen Arthur L. Greenwell Park in Kealakekua on Hawaii Island. (4032x3024, AR: 1.3333333333333333)
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.
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
By Jason Ubay
Posted September 25, 2026 at 9:07 AM HST
Infrared satellite imagery shows Hurricane Nolo near Hawaiʻi on Sept. 25, 2026. (525x525, AR: 1.0)
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.
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
By Pixie Clay
Posted September 24, 2026 at 11:24 PM HST
(897x736, AR: 1.21875)
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.
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
By Pixie Clay
Posted September 24, 2026 at 5:25 PM HST
An infrared satellite image of the Pacific Ocean shows Hurricane Nolo near the Hawaiian Islands on Thursday, Sept. 23, 2026. (1800x1080, AR: 1.6666666666666667)
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.
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 24, 2026 at 4:20 PM HST
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.
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 24, 2026 at 3:58 PM HST
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:
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 24, 2026 at 3:19 PM HST
County of Maui crews prepare for a possible storm surge in South Maui ahead of the arrival of Tropical Storm Nolo, Thursday, Sept. 24, 2026. (1024x683, AR: 1.499267935578331)
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.
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 24, 2026 at 3:07 PM HST
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
Shelters Opening Friday, Sept. 25 at 6 a.m.
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 24, 2026 at 1:20 PM HST
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.
"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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 24, 2026 at 12:32 PM HST
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.
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?
By Jason Ubay
Posted September 24, 2026 at 12:27 PM HST
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.
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 24, 2026 at 11:55 AM HST
Rainfall forecast from Nolo is expected to significantly impact Hawaiʻi Island and Maui County. (3300x2550, AR: 1.2941176470588236)
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.
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 24, 2026 at 9:19 AM HST
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.
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
By Jason Ubay
Posted September 24, 2026 at 8:58 AM HST
(897x736, AR: 1.21875)
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.
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
By Jason Ubay
Posted September 23, 2026 at 11:08 PM HST
An infrared satellite image of the Pacific Ocean shows Tropical Storm Nolo near the Hawaiian Islands on Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2026. (1800x1080, AR: 1.6666666666666667)
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.
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
By Jason Ubay
Posted September 23, 2026 at 9:23 PM HST
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.
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
By Jason Ubay
Posted September 23, 2026 at 8:54 PM HST
The 5-day forecast for Tropical Storm Nolo as of 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2026. (897x736, AR: 1.21875)
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.
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 23, 2026 at 8:37 PM HST
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.”
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 23, 2026 at 8:34 PM HST
Hawaiʻi County opened three shelters at 6 p.m. Wednesday:
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.
- 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
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
By HPR News Staff
Posted September 23, 2026 at 8:26 PM HST
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."
"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."