Oʻahu remains under Tropical Storm Warning as Lowell moves closer to Hawaiʻi

HONOLULU – The City and County of Honolulu is urging residents to complete preparations and remain weather-aware this afternoon as Hurricane Lowell moves closer to the Hawaiian Islands and Oʻahu remains under a Tropical Storm Warning.

As of 11 a.m. Monday, Hurricane Lowell was located near latitude 18.7 North, longitude 161.8 West and was moving north-northeast at 17 mph.

A Hurricane Warning remains in effect for Kauaʻi County, including Kauaʻi and Niʻihau, while a Tropical Storm Warning remains in effect for Oʻahu.

The core of Lowell is forecast to pass near or just west of Niʻihau tonight and early Tuesday. While the center of the hurricane is expected to remain west of Oʻahu, the storm is large enough and close enough that tropical-storm conditions are expected on Oʻahu beginning this afternoon or evening.

“This is the time to finish getting ready,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “We have been talking about Lowell for a week, and now the storm is here. The center is still expected to pass west of Oʻahu, but that does not mean we won’t feel its effects. Secure anything outside that could blow around, charge your phones and devices, know where your flashlights are, and stay informed. Most importantly, use good judgment. If conditions get bad, stay home and stay safe.”

The City’s Emergency Operations Center has been activated to coordinate the City’s response to Hurricane Lowell. The Honolulu Police Department has also activated its Department Operations Center to coordinate HPD resources and operations throughout the storm.

City departments and first responders are fully engaged and prepared to respond as conditions deteriorate. The Department of Emergency Management continues coordinating with state and federal partners, neighboring counties, and City agencies to monitor conditions and respond to impacts across Oʻahu.

Residents should secure outdoor furniture, umbrellas, tents, trash cans, and other loose objects before winds increase. Stronger gusts are possible in elevated areas and along windward and leeward slopes where terrain can accelerate winds.

Heavy rainfall is another concern. Periods of heavy rain are expected to increase across the Hawaiian Islands and continue into Tuesday, creating the potential for flash flooding. Residents should avoid flood-prone areas, never drive through flooded roadways, and be prepared to change plans if conditions deteriorate.

The ocean will become increasingly dangerous through the day.

A High Surf Warning is in effect for Oʻahu’s south-facing shores as a south-southwest swell from Lowell rapidly builds. Life-threatening surf and rip currents are expected, and residents and visitors should stay away from dangerous shorebreak, exposed rocks, and other coastal areas where large waves can arrive unexpectedly.

Honolulu Ocean Safety is asking everyone to follow lifeguard instructions and posted warnings.

When in doubt, stay out.

Residents should keep phones and portable batteries charged and make sure they have a way to receive emergency information if power or internet service is interrupted. Check on kūpuna, neighbors, and family members who may need additional assistance.

While today is the Labor Day holiday, residents should not let the holiday become a reason to tune out the weather.

Plans may need to change as conditions develop this afternoon and tonight. Continue following information from the City and County of Honolulu, the National Weather Service, local weathercasters, and trusted news organizations.

The City will continue monitoring Hurricane Lowell throughout the day and provide additional information as conditions warrant.

—PAU—

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