Updated on Sept. 4 at 5:30 a.m.
Category 3 Hurricane Lowell is expected to bring possible heavy rainfall, high surf and strong winds to Kauaʻi, according to the 5 a.m. Friday advisory from the Central Pacific Hurricane Center.
Lowell is forecast to produce rainfall totals of 3 to 6 inches, with maximum totals exceeding 10 inches possible, for Kauai, Niʻihau and the Big Island. This rainfall may produce flash flooding and mudslides, especially in areas of steep terrain.
For Maui, 2 to 4 inches of rain is expected, with isolated maximum totals of 8 inches possible. Across the remaining islands, rainfall of 1 to 2 inches with maximum amounts of 4 inches is possible.
The center of Lowell was located about 600 miles south of Līhuʻe, moving west at 8 mph with sustained winds of 125 mph. Hurricane watches could be required for portions of the westernmost Hawaiian Islands on Saturday.
The storm is expected to continue west with a gradual decrease in forward speed, and then take a sharp turn to the north or north-northeast on Sunday. After this turn, it will pick up speed, bringing the system close to the westernmost Hawaiian Islands on Monday and Monday night.
Although the models all show Lowell turning, there is a notable amount of spread on how close the core of Lowell gets to Kauai County, the advisory said.
The Air Force Hurricane Hunters are scheduled to investigate Lowell on Friday, and the information they collect will be very helpful in assessing the cyclone’s intensity and structure.
Some re-strengthening of the hurricane also is forecast during the next couple of days, back to Category 4 level.
Swells from Lowell are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions during the next several days across many of the Hawaiian islands, including Kauaʻi and Niʻihau.
While it is still too soon to determine Lowell’s exact track, the hurricane could bring storm surge, wind and rainfall impacts to portions of Hawai‘i early next week, especially Kaua‘i County.
Winds are still expected to arrive by about 8 a.m. or shortly after Monday.
Hurricane force winds on Thursday night extended outward up to 45 miles and tropical storm force winds extended outward up to 140 miles from the hurricane’s center.
Swells generated by Lowell are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions in parts of the state during the next several days and forecast to likely increase early next week.
A high surf advisory remains in effect through 6 a.m. Saturday for south and southeast exposures of all islands.
Large breaking waves are forecast to build up to 7 to 10 feet along east-facing shores, and 8 to 12 feet along south-facing shores. The swells will build up to 10 to 14 feet by Saturday, the National Weather Service advisory said.
The storm is bringing back memories for some Kauaʻi residents of the catastrophic Category 4 Hurricane ʻIniki, which in 1992 struck the island, killing seven people and doing an estimated $3 billion in damage.
Kaua‘i County urges preparedness
Kaua‘i County officials encourage the public to check and replenish their emergency disaster kits, which should include at least a 14-day supply of non-perishable food, one gallon of water per person per day, a battery-powered radio, a flashlight, an extra supply of prescription medicines, and other items tailored to individual and family needs.
A smaller, portable go-kit is also recommended should you need to evacuate. County, state, and federal officials will continue to monitor the situation and actively coordinate in preparation for this potential event.
The public is advised to check conditions before venturing out for hiking, river, or beach excursions.
River and stream crossings, recreational trails, and other outdoor recreation areas may quickly become hazardous. During severe weather, emergency rescues might not be possible.
Do not cross swollen rivers or streams; always check with a lifeguard at any lifeguard station before entering the ocean. Know before you go.
Standard tips to prepare for power outages from Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative include:
- Use surge protectors to protect your appliances and equipment
- Turn off and unplug all unnecessary appliances or equipment
- Keep a portable battery-powered radio and flashlights with extra batteries
- Stay away from downed lines and report to 9-1-1
- Contact KIUC at 808-246-4300 to update your contact information & receive alerts
Other important numbers and resources
To stay updated, tune in to local media broadcast channels for the most current information. The following resources are available for emergency preparedness:
- Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency – kauai.gov/KEMA
- National Weather Service – weather.gov/hfo, or automated weather line at 808-245-6001
- Kauaʻi Department of Water – 808-245-5400 and kauaiwater.org
- Road and closure conditions – 808-241-1725
Officials remind the public to use 9-1-1 only for life-threatening or time-critical emergencies. Calls to 9-1-1 for weather updates or general road conditions can significantly delay emergency response. To report non-emergency road hazards, contact KPD Dispatch (non-emergency) at 808-241-1711.
For up-to-date information about Kauaʻi ocean conditions and safety, please speak to a county lifeguard, visit safebeachday.com, or call the Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4984.
To sign up for Everbridge, the County’s emergency notification service, please visit www.kauai.gov/KEMA and click “Notification Services.” You may also text “KAUAIEMA” to 888777, or call the Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.
Additional activity to the east
There also are two storms in the Eastern Pacific: Hurricane Karina and Hurricane Marie. Neither are not expected to present any severe weather impacts to the state; however, forecasters continue to monitor them closely.
The public should continue to monitor local radio broadcasts for official advisories, watches or warnings as well as forecasts for specific locations on the National Weather Service website.
