Periods of heavy rain and strong southeast winds from Hurricane Nolo’s outer rain bands are expected later Tuesday on Kauaʻi and Niʻihau, with the potential for flooding and mudslides.
However, National Weather Service forecasters canceled a high surf advisory for south and west shorelines.
Weather outlook
Category 2 Hurricane Nolo was about about 310 miles west of Līhuʻe, moving north near 8 mph as of 11 a.m. Tuesday, with maximum sustained winds near 100 mph.
The storm has tracked farther west than expected and is weakening, but its wind field is expanding on the eastern side, toward the islands.
Nolo’s center will remain well southwest and west of the main Hawaiian Islands.
The hurricane is expected to slow significantly and turn west Wednesday, then continue generally westward through the latter part of the week. Steady weakening is forecast during the next couple of days, followed by some strengthening later in the week.
There are no tropical storm or hurricane watches or warnings in effect for the main Hawaiian Islands, including Kauaʻi.
Rain:
- Periods of heavy rain are expected starting later today and this evening.
- Rainfall totals of 4 to 6 inches are possible through the weekend in Kōkeʻe, Waimea, Kōloa and the island’s interior, with 3 to 4 inches around Barking Sands, 2 to 3 inches in Līhuʻe and Kapaʻa and 1.5 to 2 inches in Princeville.
- Niʻihau could see 3 to 4 inches.
- This brings the potential for flooding and mudslides, especially in steep terrain.
- Clear gutters and drains, keep storm debris out of streams and drainage ditches and never drive or walk through flooded roads or streams.
Wind
- Strong southeast winds are expected with heavier rain later today and this evening, with gusts of 30 to 40 mph possible on the west side.
- Secure loose outdoor items and storm debris.
Hurricane Nolo updates are available at the National Hurricane Center and Central Pacific Hurricane Center website.
Emergency preparedness
Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency encourages every household, business and visitor to build or refresh an emergency kit, review family plans know evacuation routes now.
Preparation is the single most important step in keeping yourself, loved ones and neighbors safe.
Disaster kits should include:
- At least 14 days of non-perishable food.
- 1 gallon of water per person per day.
- Battery-powered radio.
- Flashlight with extra batteries.
- Extra supply of prescription medicines.
- Important documents in a waterproof container.
- Cash in small bills.
- Other items specific to individual needs, including those of keiki, kūpuna, pets and family members with access and functional needs.
Wildfire prevention
Ongoing hurricane cleanup increases wildfire risk. Residents and businesses are encouraged to:
- Avoid activities that could cause sparks, such as landscaping during hot, dry, windy afternoons.
- Keep a water source nearby in case a spark occurs.
- Do not burn green waste or storm debris.
- Before leaving a work area, check for smoldering material.
More storm forecast Information
For more scientific information about the storm forecast, click here.
Monitor products issued by the National Weather Service Honolulu forecast office for storm-specific information about your area, including possible inland watches and warnings.
