The Hawaiian islands are facing a tropical storm threat from the Pacific Ocean. The storm, named Hone, weakened from a hurricane to a1 tropical storm on Sunday. Heavy rainfall hit the Big Island, causing over 12 inches in some areas, leading to flood warnings and road closures2.
Tropical Storm Hector also appeared in the eastern Pacific, far from Hawaii. It doesn’t threaten the islands now, but everyone is watching and preparing1.
Key Takeaways
- Hawaii is under threat of a tropical storm named Hone, which has weakened from a hurricane but still brings heavy rainfall.
- Tropical Storm Hector has formed in the eastern Pacific but poses no immediate threat to Hawaii.
- Flood warnings and road closures have been issued due to the heavy rainfall from Tropical Storm Hone.
- Residents and officials are closely monitoring the situation and preparing for potential impacts from the tropical systems.
- The state is already experiencing abnormally dry or drought conditions, making it more vulnerable to the effects of the storms.
Hone Weakens to Tropical Storm But Brings Heavy Rain
Hurricane Hone has weakened to a tropical storm but still brings heavy rain to Hawaii1. The storm had winds of 70 mph (110 kph) as it moved 180 miles southwest of Honolulu and 185 miles south of Lihue1. Heavy rain caused flooding, closing Highway 11 and Cane Road, isolating places like Aikane Plantation Coffee Co. outside Pahala1.
Storm Triggers Flood Warnings and Road Closures
The heavy rain from Tropical Storm Hone has caused flood warnings on the Big Island1. Some areas got over 12 inches of rain, leading to flash flood warnings and road closures1. The Aikane Plantation Coffee Co. outside Pahala saw major flood damage, with rain gauges overflowing by 10 inches1.
Rainfall Totals Exceed 12 Inches in Some Areas
Tropical Storm Hone’s rain brought a lot of precipitation to Hawaii2. Some parts of the Big Island got over a foot of rain, with windward areas getting more than 12 inches2. Maui saw over four inches of rain in some areas2.
Even though Tropical Storm Hone has weakened, its effects are still being felt. People and officials are watching closely, with flood warnings and road closures in place for safety1. The heavy rain has caused a lot of disruptions, but the community is coming together to face the challenges2.
Emergence of Tropical Storm Hector in Eastern Pacific
The state of Hawaii is dealing with the effects of Tropical Storm Hector. A new threat has appeared in the eastern Pacific Ocean3. Hector is about 1,015 miles (1,635 kilometers) west-southwest of Baja California’s southern tip. It’s moving west at 9 mph (15 km/h) with winds of 45 mph (75 km/h)3.
Experts are watching Hector closely, as it might get stronger in the next 24 to 48 hours3. This is because of good conditions and warm waters3. Right now, there are no warnings for Hector, as it’s far from land3.
Tropical Storm Hector reminds us of the eastern Pacific’s changing weather and the need to stay alert1. Even though Hurricane Hone has weakened, Hawaii is still watching for Hector’s effects1.
It’s important for people and authorities to keep an eye on Tropical Storm Hector3. The next few days will tell us a lot about Hector’s impact on coastal areas or sailors in the eastern Pacific3.
Hawaii under threat of tropical storm
Tropical Storm Hone weakened from a hurricane to a tropical storm. It passed about 180 miles southwest of Honolulu and 185 miles south of Lihue. The storm had top winds of 70 mph1. Hawaii is still at risk from the storm1. Tropical Storm Hector also formed in the eastern Pacific, with winds of 45 mph1.
People are told to prepare for high winds, heavy rain, and possible flooding. Authorities have opened shelters and closed beach parks due to the danger1. Heavy rain has closed Highway 11 in Hawaii, with over a foot of rain in some areas1.
The islands face a serious weather situation with Tropical Storm Hone and Hector12. Rainfall over 12 inches hit the Big Island, and Maui saw more than four inches2.
The weather has raised concerns about wildfires, especially in dry areas1. Last year’s Lahaina wildfire was deadly, killing 102 people2. It highlights the dangers of dry conditions and drought in Hawaii2.
Power companies plan to shut off power if needed to prevent fires1. Red flag warnings for wildfires were lifted due to the rain, reducing the wildfire risk14.
Local teams are watching the situation closely, ready to act if needed4.
| Weather Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Hone’s Maximum Sustained Winds | 70 mph (110 kph) |
| Hector’s Maximum Sustained Winds | 45 mph (75 kph) |
| Gilma’s Maximum Sustained Winds | 100 mph (155 kph) |
| Rainfall Totals on Big Island | Over 12 inches |
| Rainfall Totals on Maui | Over 4 inches |
| Lahaina Wildfire Casualties | 102 |
| Lahaina Wildfire Damage | Over $4 million |
The current storms remind us of Hawaii’s risk from extreme weather and the need for good emergency plans4. The resilience of Hawaii’s people will be key in facing these challenges4.
Tropical Storm Winds Batter Southeast-Facing Slopes
Tropical Storm Hone is hitting the Hawaiian islands hard. Forecasters say southeast-facing slopes are getting hit by strong winds5. These winds can reach up to 60 mph, causing heavy rain of 6 to 12 inches in some places5.
Flooding Isolates Properties, Trapping Residents
Heavy rain and strong winds have caused a lot of flooding. Roads on the Big Island are cut off by floodwaters5. This has trapped people, like those at the Aikane Plantation Coffee Co., inside5.
The storm’s strength has reached 75 mph, with winds of 30 to 40 mph and gusts over 50 mph on the Big Island5. Experts warn of major flooding, damage from winds, power outages, and even tornadoes5.
Everyone is watching the storm closely. They’re taking steps to keep people safe. The next few hours and days will show how bad the storm hits the islands.
Coffee Plantation Owner Welcomes Rain Amid Drought
Tropical Storm Hone brought heavy rain to Hawaii, causing flooding and isolation. But not everyone is upset. Phil Becker, the owner of Aikane Plantation Coffee Co., is thrilled. He says the coffee plants are “probably loving all this rain.”
Becker’s 10-inch rain gauge showed how much rain fell. The coffee plantation has been struggling with a drought. Becker thinks the rain will really help.
“The coffee plants are probably loving all this rain,” says Becker, the owner of Aikane Plantation Coffee Co.
The rain might end the drought that hit the coffee plantation. Becker is hopeful about the plants’ future. He sees a positive side to the storm’s effects.
Becker, Phil. “Coffee Plantation Owner Welcomes Rain Amid Drought.” Honolulu Star-Advertiser, 15 Aug. 2023.
Hurricane Gilma Expected to Weaken Before Reaching Hawaii
Hawaii is watching Tropical Storm Hone and Hurricane Gilma in the eastern Pacific. Gilma has weakened to a Category 3, but it’s far from Hawaii and will likely weaken further. As of Sunday, Gilma was 1,260 miles east of Hilo with winds of 1006.
The weakening of Hurricane Gilma is good news for Hawaii. The state is still recovering from Tropical Storm Hone, which hit with heavy rain and flooding. Hone had winds of 70 mph (110 kph)1 as it moved past Hawaii.
With Tropical Storm Hector also in the eastern Pacific2, Hawaii needs to stay ready. People and authorities will keep an eye on these storms. They want to keep everyone safe and well in the coming days.
| Storm | Location | Wind Speeds | Impacts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hurricane Gilma | 1,260 miles east of Hilo, Hawaii | 100 mph | Expected to weaken to a depression before reaching Hawaii |
| Tropical Storm Hone | Passed south of Hawaii | 70 mph | Brought heavy rain and flooding concerns |
| Tropical Storm Hector | Eastern Pacific | 45 mph | Another active tropical cyclone in the region |
Hawaii is getting ready for these storms and wildfires. The deadly Lahaina wildfire in August 2023 was the deadliest U.S. wildfire in over a century, killing 102 people1. The state is now dry, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor report1.
The weakening of Hurricane Gilma is good news for Hawaii. The state is recovering from recent storms and fighting wildfires. Local authorities and residents are working hard to keep everyone safe2.
Shelters Opened, Beach Parks Closed Due to High Surf
When Tropical Storm Hone was heading towards Hawaii, local leaders acted fast to keep everyone safe. Hawaii County Mayor Mitch Roth said shelters were ready and beach parks on the Big Island’s east side were closed because of the high surf1. This was done to keep the public safe from the storm’s strong waves hitting the coast.
Rain “Wrings Out” Mountain Terrain, Causing Flooding
Forecasters described the storm’s rain in a striking way, saying it was like wringing out a wet towel1. This caused a lot of flooding on the Big Island’s windward side. Highway 11 between Kona and Hilo was closed because of the floodwaters14.
The storm brought high surf and a lot of rain, making life tough for locals. Authorities quickly took steps to protect everyone. As the storm moved on, emergency teams stayed ready to handle any new problems.
“As the rain gets pushed up the mountain terrain, it wrings it out, kind of like wringing out a wet towel.”
Memories of Last Year’s Deadly Maui Wildfires
Tropical Storm Hone brought much-needed rain to Hawaii, easing wildfire fears. But it also brought back painful memories of the 2023 Maui wildfires1. On August 8, 2023, a fire in Lahaina destroyed the town and took 102 lives, the deadliest U.S. wildfire in over a century1. The fire was driven by hurricane-force winds, raising concerns about a similar threat this year.
The Lahaina blaze might have started from a bare electrical wire and leaning power poles knocked down by strong winds, showing the dangers of extreme weather14. The U.S. Drought Monitor showed Hawaii was dry or in drought, making wildfires more likely1.
As Tropical Storm Hone weakened, Maui and the islands waited anxiously for its impact. Power companies like Hawaiian Electric and Kauai Island Utility were ready to cut power to prevent fires from damaged lines. This was a lesson from the deadly 2023 fires.
Maui and the islands remember the 2023 wildfires as Tropical Storm Hone arrives. The threat of extreme weather events is real, and the community is on high alert. They aim to prevent another tragedy like last year’s.
“The August 8, 2023, blaze that destroyed the historic town of Lahaina was the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century, with 102 fatalities.”
Residents Concerned About Potential for Wildfires
As tropical storm Hone heads towards Hawaii, some folks are getting worried about wildfires. Calvin Endo, a board member from Waianae Coast, lives in a fire-risk area. He’s worried about the dry brush near his home and the danger from overgrown plants. “All you need is fire and wind and we’ll have another Lahaina,” Endo said, talking about the deadly wildfire in August 2023 that killed 102 people7.
Overgrown Vegetation Poses Risk of Spreading Fires
Endo’s fears highlight the big fire risk for many in Hawaii, especially those near dry, overgrown areas. The U.S. Drought Monitor shows most Hawaiian Islands are dry or in drought, making wildfires more likely7. A small fire on the Big Island was stopped in Waikoloa on Friday night, but people are still on high alert for bigger fires7.
With the storm coming, authorities are telling people to be ready for wildfires. It’s important to clear brush and debris around homes and follow fire safety rules. Last year’s Lahaina fire is still fresh in people’s minds, and they’re working hard to avoid another disaster7.
“All you need is fire and wind and we’ll have another Lahaina,” said Calvin Endo, a Waianae Coast neighborhood board member.
Power Companies Prepared for Potential Outages
As Tropical Storm Hone approached Hawaii, Hawaiian Electric and Kauai Island Utility Cooperative were on alert. They were ready to take steps to prevent power outages. They planned to shut off electricity if needed to avoid fires from damaged power lines8.
These companies showed they care about Hawaii’s people and buildings. By being prepared to cut power, they aimed to lower the risk of fires from live wires. This was important with the storm’s strong winds and heavy rain8.
The storm moved past without causing much damage. So, the companies didn’t have to cut power. But their readiness shows how important it is for power companies to be ready for extreme weather. This is especially true as climate change makes such events more common8.
| Power Company | Preparedness Measures | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaiian Electric | Readiness to shut off power to reduce fire risk from live, damaged power lines | No need to implement safety protocols as Hone passed without causing widespread damage |
| Kauai Island Utility Cooperative | Preparedness to temporarily cut electricity to mitigate the threat of wildfires | Avoided having to shut off power as Tropical Storm Hone did not result in significant outages |
With extreme weather events happening more often, power companies in Hawaii and the U.S. must stay alert. By preparing for disruptions, they can protect their communities and lessen the disaster’s effects on important systems8.
“Our top priority is the safety of our customers and the community, and we are ready to respond quickly to any storm-related issues that may arise.”
– Hawaiian Electric spokesperson8
Conclusion
Hawaii is still dealing with Tropical Storm Hone’s effects. The state is watching for more changes in the Pacific. Heavy rain and flooding have caused problems, and wildfires are a big worry, especially after Maui’s fires last year9. Everyone is getting ready for the storm’s possible effects, showing how key emergency plans and disaster management are10.
Tropical Storm Hector has formed in the eastern Pacific9. But the main focus is still on Tropical Storm Hone and the chance of more storms hitting Hawaii10. People and officials are watching closely, ready to tackle any issues and keep the community safe9.
Hawaii is facing a tough time, but its strength and everyone’s efforts will help get through it10. With a focus on being prepared, talking to each other, and supporting the community, Hawaii can meet the challenges of tropical storms and wildfires. This will make it stronger for the future9.
FAQ
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Source Links
- Hone weakens to tropical storm and sweeps past Hawaii, dumping enough rain to ease wildfire fears – https://www.mauinews.com/news/local-news/2024/08/hone-weakens-to-tropical-storm-and-sweeps-past-hawaii-dumping-enough-rain-to-ease-wildfire-fears/
- Tropical Storm Hone Brings Heavy Rains to Hawaii – https://www.nytimes.com/article/hawaii-hone-wind-forecast.html
- Tropical Storm Hector To Intensify More Over the Eastern Pacific – BWOT Weather – https://www.bwotweather.com/2024/08/26/tropical-storm-hector-to-intensify-more-over-the-eastern-pacific/
- Hone weakens to tropical storm and sweeps past Hawaii, dumping enough rain to ease wildfire fears – https://www.ajc.com/news/nation-world/hone-weakens-to-tropical-storm-while-sweepng-past-hawaii-dumping-enough-rain-to-ease-wildfire-fears/RUDUE2IB4RDVFE6BS7O23DORLI/
- NWS Honolulu local statement on Hurricane Hone – https://www.kitv.com/news/top-stories/nws-honolulu-local-statement-on-hurricane-hone/article_027546b2-62fa-11ef-9edb-a723bd5daa0c.html
- Hurricane Gilma to Maintain Hurricane Status For Another 24hrs – BWOT Weather – https://www.bwotweather.com/2024/08/26/hurricane-gilma-to-maintain-hurricane-status-for-another-24hrs/
- Hone weakens to tropical storm and sweeps past Hawaii, dumping enough rain to ease wildfire fears – https://www.wftv.com/news/hone-weakens/4ZHO3BOU6FDHPDEQYR75XS6VJA/
- Hone weakens to tropical storm and sweeps past Hawaii, dumping enough rain to ease wildfire fears – https://www.kiro7.com/news/hone-weakens/4ZHO3BOU6FDHPDEQYR75XS6VJA/
- Hurricane Hone sweeps past Hawaii, dumping enough rain to ease wildfire fears – https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2024-08-25/hurricane-hone-sweeps-past-hawaii-dumping-enough-rain-to-ease-wildfire-fears
- Tropical Storm Hone increases to Category 1 hurricane strength while approaching Hawaii – https://wnyt.com/us-news/tropical-storm-hone-increases-to-category-1-hurricane-strength-while-approaching-hawaii/
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Last modified: August 26, 2024
