Tropical Storm Hone Weakens as Flooding Closes Roads and New Storm Hector Forms

As of Sunday night, Tropical Storm Hone, which had previously reached hurricane status, has significantly weakened and is now a tropical storm.

The storm, which passed south of Hawaii, has caused substantial rainfall, leading to the cancellation of red flag warnings initially issued due to high fire risk from strong winds.

The National Weather Service had warned of potential wildfire threats on the drier sides of the islands, but the heavy rain has mitigated these concerns for now.

Hone, with top winds of 70 mph (110 kph), moved slowly past Hawaii, situated about 180 miles southwest of Honolulu. The storm has brought intense rainfall to the southeastern slopes of the islands, with some areas receiving up to a foot of rain.

This deluge resulted in significant flooding, including the closure of Highway 11 between Kona and Hilo, and the Cane Road, which serves as a crucial alternative route. Property owners like Phil Becker of Aikane Plantation Coffee Co. reported severe flooding, with his rain gauge overflowing.

Despite the challenges, Becker noted that the rain could benefit their coffee crops, which have been struggling with drought conditions.

Meanwhile, in the eastern Pacific, Tropical Storm Hector has emerged with sustained winds of 45 mph (75 kph). Currently, Hector poses no immediate threat to coastal areas as it remains far out at sea, with no coastal watches or warnings in effect.

Hurricane Gilma, now a Category 3 storm, was also monitored but is expected to weaken before reaching Hawaii. As of the latest update, Gilma was located 1,260 miles east of Hilo with winds of 100 mph (155 kph). Local authorities have opened shelters and closed beach parks on the eastern side of the Big Island due to high surf and storm conditions.

In the wake of the 2023 Lahaina wildfire tragedy, concerns about fire risks remain, though recent conditions have alleviated immediate threats. The storm’s impact has been substantial but has reduced the risk of fire dangers for the time being.