Hurricane Lowell Approaching Hawaii

Residents in Hawaii are gearing up as Hurricane Lowell is set to unleash heavy rainfall, severe winds, and potential flash flooding across the island state.

A Hurricane Warning was issued on Sunday for Kauaʻi County, with the storm anticipated to closely pass by the western islands, as reported by Fox Weather on Monday.

The warning also includes parts of the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, a collection of smaller islands and atolls located northwest of Hawaii’s main islands. At the time, the hurricane was about 455 miles southwest of Lihue and was moving in a north-northeast direction.

This storm has been classified as a Category 3 hurricane.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has indicated that this category could lead to devastating damage, stating that well-constructed homes might face significant damage, including loss of roofs. Many trees could be uprooted or snapped, causing blockages on roads. Utilities like electricity and water might be out for days or even weeks after the storm moves through.

Moreover, the storm could bring sustained winds reaching between 111 and 129 miles per hour.

AccuWeather Meteorologist Geoff Cornish noted that Hawaii is preparing for Lowell to make its closest approach late Monday into Tuesday.

He mentioned that while the storm might encounter increased wind shear and cooler waters that could lessen its intensity somewhat, it is still expected to be a strong hurricane as it nears western Hawaii. Afterward, it is projected to shift toward the north-northwest and start slowing down by Tuesday night after passing the Hawaiian Islands.

Hawaii’s Governor Josh Green declared a state of emergency on Thursday in light of the approaching storm, according to reports.

Authorities are advising residents to get ready for heavy rainfall, flooding, and the risk of mudslides as the storm progresses. The Kauai Emergency Management Agency is urging locals to fill up their gas tanks, charge electronic devices, replenish prescription medications, and ensure they have sufficient food and water. Residents should be prepared to stay home for several days.

In Lihue, which has a population of about 8,000 and is home to Kauai’s main airport, residents have been stockpiling food and water as grocery store shelves begin to empty.