Hurricane Nolo stalls south of Hawaii, triggering severe flooding risks as it strengthens

Key points

• Nolo is a Category 2 hurricane with 105 mph winds, located 145 miles south of Hawaii’s Big Island, moving slowly westward.
• Rainfall totals up to 20 inches are expected on the Big Island, with up to 10 inches on Maui, risking life-threatening flooding and mudslides.
• The National Hurricane Center downgraded rainfall forecasts after Nolo’s path shifted further south, reducing the risk of direct landfall.
• Hawaii’s governor issued an emergency proclamation, activating 400 National Guard members, and President Trump approved a federal emergency declaration.
• The Pacific is experiencing a hyperactive season with three simultaneous hurricanes, linked to a record-strong El Niño, while the Atlantic has no hurricanes.

Background

Hawaii has faced multiple hurricanes in recent months, including Lala in August, which swept 100 homes off their foundations, and Lowell this month. The current storm activity is part of a broader pattern where the Pacific is unusually active due to warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures, while the Atlantic remains quiet.

How outlets are covering it

NBC News and The Guardian emphasize the immediate threat of flooding and wind damage, noting that Nolo’s slow movement prolongs the risk. The Washington Post highlights the downward revision in rainfall forecasts due to Nolo’s westward turn, reducing the chance of catastrophic flooding. Yale Climate Connections provides a broader context, noting that Nolo is one of three active Pacific hurricanes, a trend linked to El Niño, while the Atlantic remains inactive. All sources agree on the severe flood risk but differ in emphasis on the storm’s trajectory and intensity.

Why it matters

The storm highlights the vulnerability of Hawaii to repeated hurricane impacts, straining resources and infrastructure. The contrast between the active Pacific and quiet Atlantic underscores the influence of El Niño on global weather patterns, affecting disaster preparedness and resource allocation.

What to watch

Nolo is expected to strengthen into a major hurricane by Monday before weakening. Rainfall is forecast to taper by Sunday evening as the storm moves west. Residents are advised to avoid flooded areas and prepare for potential power outages and mudslides.