Overview
- Lowell is a major Category 4 hurricane several hundred miles south of Hawaiʻi as of early Sunday and is forecast to slow, turn northward and pass just west of the western islands late Monday while remaining near major‑hurricane strength.
- Forecasters say the storm’s exact turn is uncertain and that an eastward shift of even tens of miles could expose Kauaʻi and Niʻihau to hurricane‑force gusts and higher storm surge.
- Heavy rain of 3 to 6 inches is expected across Kauaʻi and the Big Island with isolated totals up to about 10 inches in higher terrain, raising the risk of flash flooding and mudslides in steep, vulnerable areas.
- Large swells from Lowell and nearby storms are already creating life‑threatening surf, dangerous rip currents and a heightened risk of coastal flooding on south‑ and west‑facing shores, which could worsen if high tide coincides with peak waves.
- State officials declared a statewide emergency and pre‑positioned equipment and personnel, including National Guard assets, and residents have been urged to complete preparations and monitor official watches and warnings.