Tropical Storm Nolo threatens Hawaii with catastrophic flooding as it intensifies

Key points

• Nolo is forecast to reach hurricane strength by Thursday, Sept. 24, and potentially major hurricane status by the weekend, with sustained winds of 110 mph near the Big Island late Friday.
• A hurricane watch is in effect for the entire Big Island, and a flood watch covers Hawaii, Maui, Lanai, Molokai, and Kahoolawe through Saturday, Sept. 26.
• Rainfall totals of 15 to 36 inches are expected on the Big Island, with the heaviest amounts at higher elevations, posing risks of catastrophic flooding and mudslides in steep terrain.
• The storm is expected to make a sharp turn north on Thursday, bringing swells and life-threatening surf conditions to the islands starting Friday.
• El Niño is identified as a major factor in the unusually active Pacific season, which has already seen three named storms impact Hawaii.

Background

Hawaii has faced a series of tropical cyclones this year, including Tropical Storm Lala in August, which caused over 200,000 power outages and significant damage, and Tropical Storm Moke in late August, which brought heavy rain and dangerous surf. The current storm, Nolo, is the fourth named system to threaten the islands this season, underscoring the impact of El Niño on Pacific weather patterns.

How outlets are covering it

USA Today and The Washington Post both emphasize the threat of catastrophic flooding and the storm's potential to strengthen into a major hurricane, with The Washington Post noting the risk of 'locally disastrous flooding.' Hawaii News Now provides specific rainfall estimates of 15 to 36 inches for the Big Island and highlights the storm surge risk, while USA Today notes the cancellation of the Na Wahine O Ke Kai canoe race due to rough conditions. All sources agree on the storm's trajectory and the need for immediate preparedness, but Hawaii News Now places greater emphasis on the wind and storm surge risks, while USA Today and The Washington Post focus more on the rainfall and flooding potential.

Why it matters

The threat from Tropical Storm Nolo highlights the vulnerability of Hawaii to repeated tropical cyclone impacts, particularly in areas still recovering from previous storms. The potential for catastrophic flooding and mudslides poses a significant risk to life and property, especially in steep terrain. The active Pacific season, driven by El Niño, underscores the need for ongoing preparedness and resilience in the face of extreme weather events.

What to watch

Nolo is expected to make a sharp turn north on Thursday, Sept. 24, and approach the Big Island by Friday, Sept. 25, potentially as a major hurricane. Heavy rain is forecast to continue through the weekend, with swells and life-threatening surf conditions expected to build. The National Hurricane Center will continue to monitor the storm's track and intensity, and residents are urged to stay prepared and monitor updates.