Hurricanes in the Pacific Ocean

A trio of hurricanes is currently active in the Pacific Ocean, with one poised to bring unusual tropical rain to Southern California this weekend.

Hurricane Marie upgraded to a Category 1 on Wednesday evening and is expected to drift northward over the next few days. Ultimately, it will likely weaken while far from the California coast.

Interestingly, high-altitude winds could steer some tropical moisture from Marie into Southern California, southern Nevada, and the western Four Corners, potentially resulting in some beneficial rain showers, according to reports. However, forecasters do not anticipate any significant flooding in Southern California.

That said, south-facing beaches might see high surf and dangerous rip currents, which pose risks for swimmers.

Marie is part of a unique convergence of three hurricanes in the tropical Pacific. In contrast, Hurricane Lowell presents a more severe threat to Hawaii. This storm has intensified into a Category 4, with peak winds reaching 140 miles per hour.

Currently, Lowell is located south of Hilo, Hawaii, and is projected to make a sharp northward turn, approaching the islands early next week. Kauai appears to be the island most at risk, while Niʻihau is also under observation as the projected path changes.

Authorities are preparing facilities in Kauai to be activated if conditions worsen, but the exact timeline for any activation remains uncertain, according to a Public Information Officer for the county.

Lastly, there’s Hurricane Karina, dubbed “the Pacific’s other powerhouse.” This Category 3 storm has winds nearing 115 mph but is expected to lose strength quickly over the weekend as it moves north and east of Hawaii, remaining over open waters.