Nolo weakens to Category 1 but brings life-threatening flooding and mudslides to Hawaii

Key points

• Nolo's maximum sustained winds are 90 mph, with hurricane-force winds extending 35 miles from the center and tropical storm-force winds reaching 150 miles.
• The storm is moving west at 5 mph and is forecast to accelerate, then turn northwest on Monday and Tuesday, remaining well south of the main Hawaiian Islands.
• The Big Island's eastern and southern portions are expected to receive 3 to 6 additional inches of rain, bringing storm totals to 10 to 20 inches, with isolated maximum amounts of 25 inches.
• A High Wind Warning is in effect until 6 p.m. Sunday for portions of Maui County and Hawaii Island, with east winds of 30 to 45 mph and gusts up to 75 mph possible.
• A Flood Watch remains in effect for Hawaii Island until 6 a.m. Sunday, and a High Surf Warning is in effect for the southeast shores of Hawaii Island.

Background

Nolo is the third hurricane to pass near Hawaii in two months, following Hurricane Lala in August and Hurricane Lowell earlier this month. The Pacific has been unusually active this season, with storm activity running above average during the peak of hurricane season, a pattern consistent with El Niño years.

How outlets are covering it

Maui Now and Hawaii News Now report that Nolo has weakened to a Category 1 hurricane and is moving slowly westward, with the tropical storm warning for Hawaii Island and the tropical storm watch for Maui County canceled. WRAL emphasizes the ongoing risks of flash floods, dangerous winds, and extreme surf, noting that parts of the Big Island could see rainfall totals up to 20 inches. All sources agree that while the direct threat of hurricane-force winds has diminished, the storm continues to pose severe risks of life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly in areas already damaged by previous storms.

Why it matters

The continued threat of life-threatening flooding and mudslides poses significant risks to residents and infrastructure in Hawaii, particularly in areas already damaged by previous storms. The storm's slow movement and potential for rapid intensification highlight the ongoing challenges of the active hurricane season and the need for continued preparedness and emergency response.

What to watch

Nolo is forecast to strengthen into a major hurricane by early Monday before weakening. Residents are advised to remain prepared for potential flooding, mudslides, and dangerous surf, and to follow local authorities' guidance on emergency shelters and safety measures.