Tropical Storm Hone to Hit Hawaii: Heavy Rain, Strong Winds, and Flooding Expected
August 23, 2024Residents can expect rainfall between 6 to 12 inches, which raises the risk of flooding across the islands.
Strong wind gusts are anticipated, potentially reaching up to 73 mph, especially in areas where winds descend from higher terrain.
Wind advisories are in effect for smaller islands, with gusts expected to exceed 55 mph, posing risks of downed trees and property damage.
Residents are advised to secure outdoor items and prepare for possible power outages due to the anticipated strong winds.
Tropical Storm Hone is set to impact Hawaii this weekend, bringing heavy rain and strong winds, particularly to the Big Island.
While Hone is expected to strengthen and may briefly reach Category 1 hurricane status on Sunday, it will likely have passed the Big Island by that time.
In preparation for the storm, several beach parks on the Big Island have been closed, and local officials are readying shelters if necessary.
Drought conditions in Hawaii are currently severe, with 73% of the state experiencing moderate drought or worse, which heightens wildfire risks.
The dry air north of Hone is expected to exacerbate these drought conditions and further increase wildfire risks across the islands.
Although the wildfire risks from Hone are lower than those posed by last year's devastating wildfires on Maui, residents are still urged to exercise caution.
Following last year's emergency response issues, the new administrator of the Maui Emergency Management Agency plans to enhance alert systems for wildfires.
Governor Josh Green has declared a state of emergency to streamline emergency operations in response to the approaching storm.
Summary based on 15 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • Aug 24, 2024
Hawaii’s Big Island under tropical storm warning as Hone nears southern edgesTime • Aug 23, 2024
Tropical Storm Hone Forecast to Bring Heavy Rain to HawaiiTime • Aug 23, 2024
Where Tropical Storm Hone Is HeadedYahoo News • Aug 24, 2024
Tropical Storm Hone prompts warnings for Hawaii’s Big Island