Forecasters monitor 2 storms in the Pacific. Is Hawaii at risk?
Hawaii is gearing up for strong winds and heavy rain from Tropical Storm Hone this weekend.
The National Weather Service (NWS) anticipates that Hone will move south of the Hawaiian Islands, briefly intensifying into a hurricane late Sunday into Monday, as it approaches from the southwest.
Experts noted that there’s a chance Hone could increase the risk of wildfires, particularly in regions with high winds and little rainfall.
“If Hone loses its structure and the rain bands weaken, the wind may increase without much rain on the mountain’s lee sides, raising the wildfire threat,” said Alex DaSilva, AccuWeather’s leading hurricane specialist, on Friday.
Additionally, the NWS reported that advisories have been issued for Hurricane Gilma by the National Hurricane Center. At present, Gilma is approximately 1,650 miles east of Hilo, Hawaii. According to AccuWeather, Gilma is deemed less concerning for land than Hone, and is expected to significantly weaken before reaching the islands.
Hawaii braces for Hone
In preparation for Hone, the island of Hawaii has issued several warnings, including a tropical storm warning, flood watch, high surf advisory, and a red flag warning for fire weather, as reported by the NWS Honolulu office on Saturday.
Hawaii County Mayor Mitch Roth stated in an update on Friday that it is unlikely that a public safety power shutoff, or PSPS, will occur due to wildfire risk from Hawaiian Electric, the local utility. This is typically necessitated by high winds, low humidity, and dry conditions, which are not expected with Hone, he noted in a social media video. Instead, rain is expected.
“While it’s a possibility, it’s not a strong one, that a PSPS will take place,” he mentioned.
Officials have also closed campgrounds and hunting areas on the island over the weekend in anticipation of Hone’s approach.
“Everyone is advised to exercise caution and stay updated on current and anticipated weather conditions,” stated a release from the state on Friday. “More closures could be announced unexpectedly.”
