Key moments
A powerful Kona Low is causing heavy rain and hurricane-force winds throughout Hawaii, leading to significant disruptions across the islands. The storm, which began on Tuesday, is expected to continue until at least Monday, affecting daily life and infrastructure.
As of the latest updates, more than 38,000 Hawaiian Electric Co. customers remain without power across Oahu, Maui County, and Hawaii island. The storm has resulted in widespread road closures and property damage due to flooding, landslides, and downed power lines. In some areas, particularly on Maui, approximately two feet of rain have already fallen, resulting in flash flooding.
Flash Flood Watches are currently in effect for most of Hawaii, with forecasts indicating an additional 5 to 8 inches of rain possible through Monday. High Wind Warnings have also been issued for the entire island chain, with gusts reaching up to 135 mph reported in higher elevations. These conditions have shattered decades-old records in Hawaii, highlighting the severity of the storm.
Emergency services are urging the public to exercise caution. Marc Asano, HECO incident commander, stated, “The safety of the public and our crews is our top priority.” Residents are strongly advised against driving through pooling or moving water, as conditions remain hazardous.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has been closed due to the dangerous weather conditions, further emphasizing the storm’s impact on tourism and local activities. The situation remains dynamic, with emergency management officials closely monitoring the storm’s progression.
As the storm continues to develop, officials are working to restore power and clear roads. However, the extent of the damage and the duration of outages remain uncertain. Details remain unconfirmed as assessments are ongoing.
Flash Flood Watches will continue for most of Hawaii through Monday, with the overall threat persisting as high amounts of atmospheric moisture levels remain in the area. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and heed any warnings issued by local authorities.
As Hawaii grapples with this severe weather event, the community is coming together to support those affected. Emergency response teams are mobilizing to assist with recovery efforts, and the resilience of the Hawaiian people is being tested once again.
