HONOLULU — Hurricane Lowell is bearing down on Hawaii, and residents across the island state are bracing for a potent mix of heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and potentially devastating winds as the storm makes its closest pass to the western islands late Monday into Tuesday.
The hurricane was expected to move closely by the western islands, prompting officials to issue a Hurricane Warning on Sunday for Kauaʻi County, according to Fox Weather. That warning also extends to parts of the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, a chain of smaller islands and atolls northwest of Hawaii’s populated islands. As of Monday, the storm was located about 455 miles southwest of Lihue and moving north-northeast.
A Powerful Storm, Even If It Weakens Slightly
While forecasters expect Lowell to lose some intensity as it travels northward, it is still projected to remain a powerful hurricane when it nears Hawaii. AccuWeather Meteorologist Geoff Cornish said the storm was expected to sideswipe the islands late Monday into Tuesday.
The Weather Channel reported that Lowell may face increasing wind shear and cooler waters on its northward journey, which could knock down its intensity a bit. But it is still expected to remain a powerful hurricane when it makes its closest pass to western Hawaii, before turning toward the north-northwest and slowing down by Tuesday night after passing the islands.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) warns that at hurricane strength, the storm could bring sustained winds of 111 to 129 miles per hour. NOAA’s description of potential impacts is stark: “Devastating damage will occur: Well-built framed homes may incur major damage or removal of roof decking and gable ends. Many trees will be snapped or uprooted, blocking numerous roads. Electricity and water will be unavailable for several days to weeks after the storm passes.”
State of Emergency Declared
Hawaii Gov. Josh Green declared a state of emergency on Thursday in response to the approaching storm, according to Fox. The declaration came as authorities urged residents to prepare for heavy rainfall, flooding, and possible mudslides as the storm continues its path toward the islands.
In Kauai, the emergency management agency has been issuing urgent guidance: fill gas tanks, charge devices, refill prescriptions, and ensure enough water and food are on hand. Residents were told to be prepared to stay home for several days, according to the Associated Press.
Empty Shelves in Lihue
The urgency of those warnings was already visible on the ground in Lihue, a town of about 8,000 people that is home to Kauai’s primary airport. The Associated Press reported that residents there were stocking up on food and water as supermarket shelves emptied, a familiar scene for a state that has weathered its share of tropical storms and hurricanes in recent years.
For many in Hawaii, the memory of past storms — and the real risk of prolonged power outages, damaged roofs, and blocked roads — has driven a swift and serious preparation effort. The combination of heavy rain, flash flooding, and wind is particularly concerning for communities in flood-prone areas or those with aging infrastructure.
Forecasters are urging residents not to let their guard down, even if the storm’s wind speeds drop slightly as it approaches. The greatest threats remain the heavy rainfall and the potential for widespread flash flooding, which has historically been the deadliest and most destructive aspect of hurricanes that pass near the islands.
What to Watch For
The storm’s exact track remains subject to change, and officials are continuing to monitor its progress. The Hurricane Warning for Kauaʻi County and the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument signals that conditions are expected to deteriorate quickly, and residents in those areas should complete their preparations immediately.
“Take this seriously,” one emergency management official said, reflecting the broader tone of the warnings being issued. “Prepare for the worst, hope for the best.”
While Lowell is expected to slow down and turn northwest by Tuesday night, its impact on Hawaii is likely to be felt for days. Flooding can persist long after the storm has passed, and power outages could leave some areas without electricity or clean water for extended periods.
The state of emergency declared by Gov. Green underscores the seriousness of the situation, freeing up resources and enabling a faster response should the storm cause significant damage.
For now, residents across the western islands are hunkering down, stocking supplies, and watching the sky as Hurricane Lowell approaches.
Source: www.breitbart.com — https://www.breitbart.com/weather/2026/09/07/video-hawaii-residents-brace-for-impact-as-hurricane-lowell-nears/