Hurricane Lowell approaches Hawaii as a Category 3 storm, prompting a state of emergency and warnings for Kauai and Ni'ihau
Hawaii has declared a state of emergency as Hurricane Lowell, a Category 3 storm, moves toward the islands. The storm is forecast to pass west of Kauai and Ni'ihau on Monday night, bringing heavy rain, high surf, and potential coastal flooding. National Weather Service and National Hurricane Center reports indicate that Kauai could see rainfall totals of 6 to 10 inches, with isolated maximums of 14 inches. The Big Island is expected to receive 4 to 8 inches of rain, with isolated totals of 12 inches. These heavy rains are expected to produce significant flash flooding and mudslides, particularly in areas with steep terrain. The storm is expected to produce life-threatening surf and rip currents, with waves reaching up to 30 feet. Storm surge is forecast to flood normally dry coastal areas with up to 3 feet of seawater on Kauai and up to one foot on Oahu. While hurricane-force winds are most likely to stay over the open water, localized damaging gusts are possible on Kauai. Hurricane Lowell is the third system in recent weeks to affect the region, following Hurricane Lala and Tropical Storm Moke.
Sources
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Hurricane watch issued for Kauai as Lowell’s track shifts closer to Hawaii
San Francisco Chronicle
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Hurricane warnings issued for Hawaii as Hurricane Lowell nears
The Weather Channel
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Hawaii residents told to expect tropical storm conditions as Hurricane Lowell passes to the west
ABC7 Los Angeles
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Hawaii declares state of emergency as Hurricane Lowell approaches islands
The Guardian
Paywall and unreadable sources
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Hurricane warning issued for Kauai, Niihau as Lowell approaches
Honolulu Star-Advertiser