Hurricane Nolo expected to bring heavy rain as it skirts Hawaii’s Big Island

Key Points:

• Hurricane Nolo, currently a Category 2 storm with 105 mph winds, is forecast to strengthen into a major hurricane over the weekend, bringing intense rain, life-threatening flash flooding, and dangerous surf to Hawaii’s Big Island.
• The storm's outer rainbands began affecting the Big Island Friday evening, with hurricane conditions possible by Saturday, especially in areas with steep terrain; Nolo is expected to remain south of the main Hawaiian islands while intensifying.
• This is the third hurricane to approach Hawaii in less than two months, attributed to a record-setting El Niño causing increased Pacific hurricane activity, leaving local communities still recovering from previous storms.
• Hawaii Governor Josh Green announced that President Trump approved an emergency declaration to provide federal assistance, as residents prepare for heavy rainfall (up to 16 inches in some areas), potential mudslides, flooding, and damaging surf.
• Hurricane and tropical storm watches are in effect for Hawaii County and Maui County, with additional advisories for high surf, strong winds, and possible tornadoes and waterspouts near the Big Island.