Photo: NOAA Office of Satellite and Product Operations
Hurricane Lowell, a powerful storm currently classified as a Category 3 hurricane, is forecast to make a dramatic northward turn toward the western Hawaiian Islands, threatening the region with damaging winds, heavy rain, coastal flooding and dangerous surf early next week. As of 5 a.m. ET on Friday (August 4), Lowell is about 555 miles south-southwest of Honolulu and has maximum sustained winds of 125 mph.
Hawaii Governor Josh Green has issued a statewide emergency proclamation as the storm approaches, activating the state’s major disaster fund and authorizing the Hawaii National Guard to respond if needed. “We encourage everyone to remain prepared and continue following official weather updates,” Green said, urging residents to stock up on supplies and monitor alerts. Officials in Honolulu, Kauaʻi, and Maui counties are working with state and federal partners to coordinate emergency responses.
The hurricane, which reached Category 5 strength earlier this week with peak winds of 160 mph, is expected to remain a major hurricane through Monday morning and maintain hurricane status as it nears the islands into Tuesday. Shifting atmospheric conditions, including a dip in the jet stream, are expected to steer Lowell sharply northward, increasing the risk for significant impacts, especially on the western islands like Kauaʻi and Oʻahu.
AccuWeather meteorologists warn that, while most forecast models keep Lowell just west of Hawaii, the hurricane’s large size could still bring rough surf, strong rip currents, heavy rain, gusty winds and potential power outages to the state. Emergency officials urge residents and visitors to review emergency plans, secure loose items outdoors, and take advantage of the days ahead to prepare.
This active hurricane season in the Pacific—fueled by a strong El Niño—has brought multiple threats to Hawaii, including Hurricane Lala and Tropical Storm Moke earlier this summer. Governor Green noted, “Our state is still recovering from Lala, and we are not waiting for another storm to get close before preparing.”