Tropical Storm Hone approached the southern edges of Hawaii on Saturday, bringing with it gusts of wind and heavy rain that threatened the Big Island with potential flooding and wind damage.
The National Weather Service has issued a tropical storm warning for Hawaii County, encompassing the entirety of the Big Island, and a red-flag warning for the leeward sides of all islands due to heightened wildfire risks.
As of Saturday morning, Hone, which means “sweet and soft” in Hawaiian, was generating top winds of 65 mph (105 km/h).
According to the National Hurricane Center in Miami, forecasts suggest that the storm could intensify into a Category 1 hurricane as it nears or passes south of the Big Island from Saturday night into early Sunday.
The storm was positioned approximately 260 miles (415 km) east-southeast of Hilo and 470 miles (755 km) east-southeast of Honolulu.
Red-flag warning issued for wildfire risk as Tropical Storm Hone approaches Big Island.The eastern and southeastern regions of the Big Island are expected to receive 5-10 inches (11-25 cm) of rain, with sustained winds of 20-40 mph (32-64 km/h) and gusts potentially reaching 60 mph (97 km/h).
The dry air north of Hone is contributing to arid conditions across the state, which, combined with strong winds, is elevating wildfire risks.
Most of Hawaii is already experiencing abnormal dryness or drought conditions. The red-flag warning, effective from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, indicates increased fire danger due to the combination of warm temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds.
While the Hawaii Tourism Authority advises travelers that it is still safe to visit the islands, they recommend postponing outdoor activities.
This situation echoes last year’s devastating wildfires on Maui, although meteorologists deem current wildfire risks lower.
Hawaiian Electric and the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative are prepared to shut off power if necessary to prevent fire hazards from damaged power lines.
Meanwhile, Hurricane Gilma, a Category 2 storm trailing Hone, is expected to weaken into a tropical depression by Wednesday as it encounters cooler waters and drier air.