A new tropical storm has formed in the Central Pacific, prompting officials to issue a Tropical Storm Watch for Hawaii's Big Island.
Tropical Storm Hone, the first named storm of the season in this region, is currently located about 600 miles east-southeast of Hilo and moving westward.
According to Fox Weather, the storm's center is expected to pass near or south of the Big Island on Saturday night into Sunday. The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for coastal areas of the Big Island, indicating that tropical storm conditions are possible within the next 48 hours.
Forecasters at the Central Pacific Hurricane Center predict that Hone could strengthen to near hurricane strength over the weekend. However, the presence of dry air and moderate water temperatures in the upper 70s are expected to limit intensification. Despite the storm's center likely tracking south of the Big Island, its moisture is expected to bring tropical downpours to the windward side of the Hawaiian Islands.
These heavy rains could potentially trigger flash flooding and mudslides, particularly in mountainous regions. The National Weather Service office in Honolulu anticipates 4-8 inches of rainfall on the southern portions of the Big Island and 2-4 inches of precipitation in mountainous areas on other small islands.
Additionally, increased swells are forecasted to reach the islands over the weekend, potentially causing life-threatening surf and rip currents. This is especially concerning for southern-facing beaches such as Wailea Beach in Maui, Polihale State Park in Kauai, and Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach on the Big Island.
As Hone approaches, FOX Weather Correspondent Robert Ray has arrived in Hawaii to report live from the field. His presence underscores the importance of storm preparedness, even when direct impacts remain uncertain.
The FOX Forecast Center stated:
While the storm is likely to track south of the Big Island, its moisture will lead to tropical downpours across the windward side of the Hawaiian Islands. These downpours could trigger flash flooding and mudslides. If the system gets strong enough, we could also see an increase in big waves and swells coming into the islands.
This cautious approach to tropical systems near Hawaii is particularly poignant in light of recent history. In 2023, Category 4 Hurricane Dora passed more than 500 miles south of the island chain but contributed to conditions that fueled devastating wildfires on Maui, resulting in the destruction of thousands of structures and at least 102 fatalities.
While Hone commands attention near Hawaii, it's not the only tropical system active in the Pacific. Hurricane Gilma, a powerful Category 3 storm, is currently located about 1,900 miles away from Hawaii. Although it's expected to weaken in the coming days, Gilma is forecast to remain a hurricane through much of the upcoming weekend.
Gilma's slow forward speed of about 6 mph means its closest approach to Hawaii would likely not occur until around the Labor Day weekend. This extended timeline allows for continued monitoring and preparation as needed.
The hurricane season in both the Central and Eastern Pacific runs through November 30, leaving ample time for further tropical development. As Hone and Gilma demonstrate, vigilance and preparedness remain crucial for residents and visitors to the Hawaiian Islands throughout this period.
In conclusion, Tropical Storm Hone poses a potential threat to Hawaii's Big Island, with impacts possibly extending to other islands in the chain. While direct landfall remains unlikely, the storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall, dangerous surf conditions, and gusty winds to parts of the state. Residents and tourists alike are advised to stay informed about the storm's progress and heed any warnings or advisories issued by local authorities as Hone approaches this weekend.
