Hurricane Nolo expected to intensify and bring heavy rain to Hawaii's Big Island

Hurricane Nolo, currently a Category 2 storm with sustained winds of 105 mph, is moving north-northeast about 145 miles south of South Point on Hawaii’s Big Island, according to the National Hurricane Center. The agency warned that hurricane-strength conditions could affect the island Saturday, especially in steep terrain, and that the storm is expected to intensify into a major hurricane (Category 3 or higher) later this weekend.

Forecasters project 8-12 inches of rain across the island’s eastern and southern regions, with isolated totals up to 16 inches, while western areas could receive 1-3 inches. Maui is expected to see 4-6 inches of rain, with maximum amounts of eight inches. The heavy rainfall could trigger life-threatening flash floods and mudslides, and the storm may generate large, damaging surf along the coastline.

A hurricane watch and tropical-storm warning are in effect for Hawaii County, with a tropical-storm watch for Maui County. A wind advisory covers the rest of the state, and a high-surf advisory has been issued for south- and east-facing shores of the Big Island, as well as east-facing shores of Maui, Molokai, Niihau, Kauai and Oahu.

Governor Josh Green confirmed that President Donald Trump approved an emergency declaration for the state, enabling federal assistance for protective measures. Residents such as Tess Kala of South Point are securing property and tying down belongings, while long-time local Mark Peters noted ongoing recovery challenges from previous storms and the need for basic supplies.

The storm could also produce tornadoes and waterspouts near the island’s right-hand side of the track. Officials continue to monitor conditions as Nolo is expected to turn westward and accelerate away from the islands early next week.