Nolo now a hurricane, set to rapidly intensify as it nears Hawaii Island

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Hurricane Nolo is now moving slowly to the north-northeast on a track that will take it close to the island of Hawaii.

The National Hurricane Center said at 8 p.m. Thursday, Hurricane Nolo had maximum sustained winds of 75 miles per hour. Hurricane force winds extend up to 30 miles from the center, while tropical storm force winds extend outward up to 105 miles.

Nolo was centered about 255 miles south of South Point, or 435 miles south-southeast of Honolulu. The hurricane is moving slowly to the north-northeast at 5 miles per hour.

The forward motion of the hurricane is expected to increase to the north or northeast through Friday, followed by a sharp left turn to the west Saturday near Hawaii Island.

Nolo will steadily and then rapidly intensify into a major category 3 hurricane by this weekend.

A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for Hawaii County as Tropical Storm Nolo continues to strengthen to the south of Hawaii Island.

A Tropical Storm Watch has also been issued for the islands of Maui County. A Hurricane Watch remains in effect for Hawaii County. This means that hurricane conditions are possible within the next 48 hours.

The tropical storm warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected in the warning area within 36 hours, while the tropical storm watch means tropical storm conditions are possible within the next 48 hours.

The hurricane is moving into an area with very warm sea surface temperatures and abundant moisture which will cause rapid intensification.

The latest forecast track has Nolo making the sharp left turn further south of Hawaii Island. However, there’s still enough uncertainty, and Nolo could still make a closer approach to Hawaii Island, which would substantially increase the threat of damaging wind.

Potential threats

WIND: Hurricane conditions are possible in the watch area starting as early as Friday night.

Hurricane conditions with winds of 74 miles per hour or stronger are possible on Hawaii Island. Residents and visitors should prepare for life-threatening winds of category 1 or 2 hurricane force, or 74 to 100 miles per hour.

RAIN: Tropical Storm Nolo will produce rainfall totals of 15 to 30 inches across Hawaii Island with maximum amounts of 35 inches. This rainfall may produce catastrophic life-threatening flooding and mudslides, especially in areas of steep terrain. This includes areas on Hawaii Island that were already heavily damaged by flooding from Hurricane Lala in August.

The island of Maui can expect rainfall totals of 5 to 10 inches with maximum amounts of 20 inches. Life-threatening flooding and mudslides possible across Maui, especially in areas of high terrain.

Across the rest of the state, rainfall amounts of 1 to 3 inches with maximum totals of 6 inches will be possible and could cause localized flooding.

STORM SURGE: The combination of a dangerous storm surge and the tide will cause normally dry areas near the coast to be flooded by rising waters moving inland from the shoreline. The water could reach the following heights above ground somewhere in the indicated areas if the peak surge occurs at the time of high tide: Hawaii County 1 to 3 ft.

Weather Alerts

A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Hawaii County.

A Hurricane Watch is in effect for Hawaii County.

A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for Maui County, including the islands of Maui, Molokai, Lanai and Kahoolawe.

A Flood Watch remains in effect for the islands of Hawaii and Maui County through 6 p.m. Saturday.

A High Surf Advisory has been issued for the east shores of Molokai and Maui and the east and southeast shores of Hawaii Island.

Prepare now

The National Hurricane Center says now is the time to complete all preparations to protect life and property in accordance with your emergency plan:

Make sure you are in a safe location before the onset of strong winds or possible flooding. If you are relocating to safe shelter, leave as early as possible. Allow extra time to reach your destination. Many roads and bridges will be closed once strong winds arrive. Check the latest weather forecast before departing and drive with caution.
If you’re heading to a community shelter, be familiar with the shelter rules before arrival, especially if you have special needs or have pets. Take essential items with you from your Emergency Supplies Kit.
Failure to adequately shelter may result in serious injury or loss of life. Always heed the advice of local officials and comply with any orders that are issued.
Remember, during the storm 9 1 1 Emergency Services may not be able to immediately respond if conditions are unsafe. This should be a big factor in your decision making.
Keep cell phones well charged. Cell phone chargers for automobiles can be helpful, but be aware of your risk for deadly carbon monoxide poisoning if your car is left idling in a garage or other poorly ventilated area.
It is important to remain calm, informed, and focused during an emergency. Be patient and helpful with those you encounter.
If you are a visitor, be sure to know the name of the city or town in which you are staying. Listen for these locations in local news updates. Pay attention for instructions from local authorities.
Rapidly rising flood waters are deadly. If you are in a flood-prone area, consider moving to higher ground. Never drive through a flooded roadway. Remember, turn around don’t drown!

View the latest weather conditions here.

Download the HNN Weather app from the Apple App Store or Google Play for the latest updates from your First Alert Weather Team: chief meteorologist Jennifer Robbins and weather anchors Guy Hagi, Dan Cooke, Ben Gutierrez, and Billy V.

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