Category 3 Hurricane Lowell forecast to pass near or just west of Niʻihau tonight into Tuesday morning

Gov. Josh Green announced the closure of state, county offices, Department of Education schools, Hawaiʻi State Judiciary operations on Tuesday, Sept. 8.

Kauaiʻi and Niʻihau will feel the impacts of Category 3 Hurricane Lowell Monday morning, with high winds, strong surf, high storm surge, possible flooding and possible tornadoes.

The National Weather Service also has issued a high surf advisory for east-facing shores of Kaua’i.

On Sunday it was the calm before the storm, with Kauaʻi County officials urging residents to brace for severe weather starting to arrive Monday by stocking supplies, securing homes, and considering refuge areas as a last resort.

Customers are asked to limit water use to essential uses only such as drinking, cooking, laundry and sanitation purposes until Hurricane Lowell has safely passed and conditions have returned to normal.

David Hitzl, National Weather Service Emergency Response Specialist, said the biggest threat Category 3 Hurricane Lowell poses to Kaua‘i County is surf, which “is going to be enormous.”

Gov. Josh Green announced the closure of state, county offices, Department of Education schools, Hawaiʻi State Judiciary operations on Tuesday, Sept. 8.

Kauaiʻi and Niʻihau will feel the impacts of Category 3 Hurricane Lowell Monday morning, with high winds, strong surf, high storm surge, possible flooding and possible tornadoes.

Crews on Aug. 16 began clearing Kainahola Stream in Kapaʻa along Kapaʻa Bypass Road; an estimated completion date will be released as work progresses.

The 4-year project, in partnership with University of Nebraska-Lincoln, began Sept. 1 and will combine artificial intelligence, environmental sampling, advanced genetic analysis and high-resolution chemical analysis to identify and monitor potential risks to aquaculture, livestock and agricultural systems.

Moisture along the eastern flank of Hurricane Lowell will bring periods of heavy rain to the main Hawaiian Islands late Sunday through Tuesday.

Granting the 15-day extension provides a 45-day acceptance period, the maximum allowable time by state law; the state now has until Sept. 29 to decide on impact statement.