Updated at 5 a.m., Sept. 7
Kaua‘i County is under a hurricane warning as Category 3 Hurricane Lowell is moving north-northeastward at 14 mph, with the core forecast to pass near or just west of Niʻihau tonight and early Tuesday.
At 5 a.m., the Central Pacific Hurricane Center advisory said the storm was 375 miles southwest of Līhu‘e, with sustained winds of 115 mph. Gradual weakening is expected through Tuesday, but Lowell is forecast to remain a hurricane as it passes near the Hawaiian Islands.
Hurricane conditions are possible and tropical storm conditions are expected in Kaua‘i County beginning Monday afternoon or evening. Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 60 miles from the center and tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 175 miles.
Hurricane conditions are expected in the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument between Nihoa and French Frigate Shoals Monday night, with tropical storm conditions beginning Monday afternoon.
Kauaʻi County residents and visitors should be prepare for high winds, high surf, heavy rain, storm surge and tornadoes.
Hurricane warning
A hurricane warning is in effect for Kauaʻi County, which includes Kauaʻi and Niʻihau.
Hurricane conditions are expected in Kauai County beginning this afternoon or evening. Wind speeds atop and on the windward and leeward sides of hills and mountains are often up to 30% stronger than the near-surface winds.
Flood watch
A flood watch is in effect for the entire state, with peak rainfall amounts throughout Kauaʻi County expected at 6 to 10 inches, with maximum totals possibly exceeding 14 inches in some locations.
The Big Island is forecast to receive 4 to 8 inches of rainfall, with isolated totals up to 12 inches possible, while Maui is expected to get 2 to 4 inches of rain, with isolated maximum totals of 8 inches possible. The rest of the main Hawaiian Islands should see 2 to 4 inches of rain.
Rainfall could produce significant flash flooding and mudslides, especially on Kauaʻi and portions of the Big Island.
Storm surge
The combination of storm surge of 2 to 4 feet, especially along the south coasts of Kauaʻi and Niʻihau, and tide will cause normally dry areas near the coast to be flooded by rising waters moving inland from the shoreline.
The deepest water will occur along the immediate coast near and to the right of the center, where the surge will be accompanied by large and destructive waves. Surge-related flooding depends on the relative timing of the surge and the tidal cycle, and can vary greatly over short distances.
High surf warning
A high surf warning for south-facing shores of Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau ha been extended until 6 p,m. Tuesday.
Surf heights along south-facing are projected to reach 7 to 10 feet Monday morning, rapidly building to 20 to 30 feet Monday afternoon and evening.
The National Weather Service also has issued a high surf advisory for east-facing shores of Kaua’i and Niʻihau.
Entering the water in these areas during the high surf warning is very hazardous and could cause serious injury or death. Beachgoers are also advised to use extreme caution, as large breaking waves could make it dangerous for those standing along the shoreline.
For updated information on ocean and weather alerts, visit the NWS website, www.weather.gov/hfo.
For up-to-date information about Kaua‘i ocean conditions and ocean safety, speak to a county lifeguard at any lifeguard station, visit https://safebeachday.com/county/kauai/, or call the Ocean Safety Bureau at 808-241-4984.
Tornadoes
Several tornadoes are possible near Kauaʻi and Niʻihau Monday afternoon through Monday night. A few tornadoes are also possible across the remainder of the Hawaiian Islands.
If a tornado warning is issued for your area, be ready to shelter quickly, preferably away from windows and in an interior room not prone to flooding. If driving, scan the roadside for quick shelter
options.
Prepare now
“We need everyone on Kauaʻi to take this storm seriously and finish preparing now,” Kauaʻi County Mayor Derek Kawakami said. “Know where you will go if you need to leave your home, gather essential supplies and sign up for emergency alerts. Our county teams are ready, but preparedness begins with each household.”
Residents and visitors should monitor official forecasts, prepare emergency supplies, charge electronic devices, secure outdoor objects and avoid unnecessary travel as conditions worsen. Never drive, walk or swim through floodwaters.
For everything you should know about refuges, closures, preparation tips and more, click here.
Visitors should confirm flights, accommodations and activities directly with airlines, hotels and other providers. Visitor information is available online and by calling 1-800-GOHAWAII.
Text KAUAIEMA to 888777 to receive county emergency alerts.
The public should continue closely monitoring Lowell’s progress. Check National Weather Service forecasts and products for any additional advisories, watches or warnings issued and for specific weather information for your community.
Stay safe.
