Category 3 Hurricane Lowell Nears Hawaiʻi

Hurricane Lowell is currently a Category 3 storm with maximum sustained winds near 125 mph and is forecast to turn north, pass west of Kauaʻi and Niʻihau Monday night into Tuesday, and weaken while remaining capable of producing dangerous conditions. Hawaiʻi is under a statewide emergency declaration, with a Tropical Storm Watch for Kauaʻi County and Niʻihau and a Hurricane Watch for portions of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Heavy rain of 4 to 8 inches, with locally higher totals exceeding 12 inches, is possible on Kauaʻi and could cause flash flooding and mudslides, especially on steep terrain and the Big Island. Dangerous surf, waves of roughly 14 feet, strong wind gusts and limited coastal flooding are also possible, although the storm’s offshore track is expected to spare Hawaiʻi a direct major-hurricane strike. Kauaʻi officials have identified potential refuge areas and closed or restricted several parks and facilities, while the island’s utility warns that storm damage could cause power outages lasting hours or days. Residents, particularly in Kauaʻi County, are urged to secure property, prepare emergency supplies, monitor official alerts and follow evacuation or shelter guidance.