Tropical Storm Hone Set to Pass South of Hawaii Island

HONOLULU, HI – In the latest weather developments, tropical storm Hone remains on track to pass south of Hawaii Island. Although a direct hit isn’t anticipated, the region expects to experience heavy rainfall and strong winds through Sunday morning.

Storm Progress

As of Saturday evening, Hone was located about 125 miles south-southeast of Hilo and roughly 320 miles southeast of Honolulu, moving west at a speed of 14 mph. Its maximum sustained winds were recorded at 65 mph, with tropical storm force winds extending around 125 miles from the storm’s center, as reported by the Central Pacific Hurricane Center.

A tropical storm warning remains in effect for the Big Island, with Hone’s updated trajectory indicating that it will pass west, far south of the smaller islands through Monday. Forecasts predict modest strengthening of the storm over the next 24 to 36 hours, peaking just below hurricane intensity early this week.

Impact on Hawaii Island

Residents of the Big Island can expect to see conditions typical of a tropical storm through early Sunday. The areas expected to feel the strongest winds include the downslope of high terrain, over headlands, and through mountain passes.

Hone is expected to produce significant rainfall, with estimates ranging from 6 to 12 inches, primarily over the windward and southeast slopes of the Big Island. Locally, higher amounts are also possible. As the storm passes south of the state on Sunday and Monday, smaller islands may see rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches.

Furthermore, swells generated by Hone pose hazards, with large and potentially dangerous conditions continuing through Sunday. Life-threatening surf and rip currents are anticipated, warn forecasters.

Flood and Wind Warnings

After rainfall of up to four inches over windward Hawaii Island, broader effects of Hone are beginning to be felt. Bands of heavy showers and thunderstorms generated by the storm will continue to affect the Big Island into Sunday, elevating the risk of flash flooding.

Strong winds have been observed, with reports of approximately 30 mph winds and gusts exceeding 50 mph in some areas of the Big Island. Gusts over 60 mph have been reported around Kohala Ranch. Officials suggest that these figures may increase and cause local damage. Following these conditions, the island is under a flood watch through Monday afternoon.

Smaller islands are also under a wind advisory until early Monday, with northeast winds of 20 to 35 mph, and gusts over 55 mph expected. Forecasters warn that these conditions can lead to property damages, including the knocking down of tree branches, and difficult driving conditions, particularly for high-profile vehicles.

Emerging Response and Advisories

In response to the developing situation, emergency operational funds have been streamlined as Governor Josh Green has declared a state of emergency. Furthermore, closures and cancellations have been observed across Hawaii island in light of the approaching storm. Locals are advised to keep abreast of the latest developments and stay safe during these challenging times.