Tropical Storm Hone Set to Pass South of Hawaii Island
HONOLULU, HI – In the latest weather developments, tropical storm Hone remains on track to pass south of Hawaii Island. Although a direct hit isn’t anticipated, the region expects to experience heavy rainfall and strong winds through Sunday morning.
Storm Progress
As of Saturday evening, Hone was located about 125 miles south-southeast of Hilo and roughly 320 miles southeast of Honolulu, moving west at a speed of 14 mph. Its maximum sustained winds were recorded at 65 mph, with tropical storm force winds extending around 125 miles from the storm’s center, as reported by the Central Pacific Hurricane Center.
A tropical storm warning remains in effect for the Big Island, with Hone’s updated trajectory indicating that it will pass west, far south of the smaller islands through Monday. Forecasts predict modest strengthening of the storm over the next 24 to 36 hours, peaking just below hurricane intensity early this week.
Impact on Hawaii Island
Residents of the Big Island can expect to see conditions typical of a tropical storm through early Sunday. The areas expected to feel the strongest winds include the downslope of high terrain, over headlands, and through mountain passes.
Hone is expected to produce significant rainfall, with estimates ranging from 6 to 12 inches, primarily over the windward and southeast slopes of the Big Island. Locally, higher amounts are also possible. As the storm passes south of the state on Sunday and Monday, smaller islands may see rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches.
Furthermore, swells generated by Hone pose hazards, with large and potentially dangerous conditions continuing through Sunday. Life-threatening surf and rip currents are anticipated, warn forecasters.
Flood and Wind Warnings
After rainfall of up to four inches over windward Hawaii Island, broader effects of Hone are beginning to be felt. Bands of heavy showers and thunderstorms generated by the storm will continue to affect the Big Island into Sunday, elevating the risk of flash flooding.
Strong winds have been observed, with reports of approximately 30 mph winds and gusts exceeding 50 mph in some areas of the Big Island. Gusts over 60 mph have been reported around Kohala Ranch. Officials suggest that these figures may increase and cause local damage. Following these conditions, the island is under a flood watch through Monday afternoon.
Smaller islands are also under a wind advisory until early Monday, with northeast winds of 20 to 35 mph, and gusts over 55 mph expected. Forecasters warn that these conditions can lead to property damages, including the knocking down of tree branches, and difficult driving conditions, particularly for high-profile vehicles.
Emerging Response and Advisories
In response to the developing situation, emergency operational funds have been streamlined as Governor Josh Green has declared a state of emergency. Furthermore, closures and cancellations have been observed across Hawaii island in light of the approaching storm. Locals are advised to keep abreast of the latest developments and stay safe during these challenging times.
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
