Hurricane Lowell passing just west of Hawaii, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, punishing waves
Key Points:
- Hurricane Lowell, a Category 2 storm with 105 mph winds, is impacting western Hawaii, causing damaging winds, heavy rain, and large waves, leaving tens of thousands without power.
- The hurricane is located northwest of Lihue and moving north at 18 mph, with hurricane-force winds extending up to 70 miles from its center.
- Kauai County is under a hurricane warning, Oahu under a tropical storm warning, and a tornado watch is in effect for Niihau and Kauai due to potential tornadoes and waterspouts.
- Lowell is expected to bring up to 24 inches of rain in some areas, risking significant flash flooding and mudslides, especially in Kauai County and the Big Island.
- Residents are urged to shelter in place amid hazardous conditions, with waves reaching up to 30 feet anticipated across parts of Hawaii.