Hurricane Nolo Brings Flash Floods and Power Outages to Hawaii
Hurricane Nolo, a Category 3 storm, is moving toward Hawaii’s Big Island, bringing forecasts of up to 20 inches of rain, powerful winds and flash floods. Local officials have issued emergency proclamations and urged residents to prepare kits and seek shelter. The storm follows the recent impact of…
By Felo News Desk · Published
Hurricane Nolo, currently a Category 3 system with sustained winds of 105 mph, is tracking south of Hawaii’s Big Island and is expected to intensify over the weekend. Forecast models project the storm’s center to pass within 145 miles of the island’s southern tip, potentially bringing up to 20 inches of rain to parts of the island and strong winds that could topple trees and down power lines.
Storm Details and Forecasts
According to the National Hurricane Center, Nolo’s center is 145 miles (235 km) south of the Big Island’s southernmost point. Forecasters warn of possible flooding and mudslides, with rainfall totals up to 20 inches (51 cm) in some areas. The storm is expected to strengthen into a potentially life‑threatening and catastrophic system by the weekend. The National Hurricane Center’s director, Michael Brennan, cautioned residents to avoid venturing out into dangerous flooding and high‑wind conditions.
Hawaiian Electric’s crews, who had been restoring power in Kauai after Hurricane Lowell, have returned to Oahu, Maui and the Big Island to prepare for the approaching storm. The utility is on standby to address any outages that may occur as the winds pick up.
Emergency Preparations Across the Islands
President Donald Trump approved an emergency declaration for the state of Hawaii, authorizing the Federal Emergency Management Agency to coordinate federal assistance and provide funding for emergency measures. State officials have issued an emergency proclamation, activating hundreds of National Guard members and encouraging residents to assemble emergency kits.
Hawaii County officials on the Big Island are urging people in flood‑prone areas to consider taking refuge at shelters being set up or other safe locations. The county’s community relief hub, which has been active since August’s Hurricane Lala, is receiving supplies such as camp stoves and hygiene products from Oahu via air cargo. The nonprofit CORE and partners are continuing to support the relief effort.
Impact on Communities Still Recovering from Hurricane Lala
Hawaii is still in the process of recovering from Hurricane Lala, which struck in August and caused heavy rain, strong winds and the displacement of about 100 homes from their foundations on the Big Island. The lingering effects of Lala mean that many residents are still dealing with damaged infrastructure and limited access to utilities.
In this context, Nolo’s arrival adds a new layer of risk. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates, secure loose objects, and avoid unnecessary travel. The combination of heavy rain and strong winds could exacerbate flooding and damage to already weakened structures.
Broader Regional Threats: Hurricane Polo in Mexico
While Nolo is a primary concern for Hawaii, the Southwest Pacific region is also facing the threat of Hurricane Polo, which is heading toward the Baja California peninsula. Polo, with maximum sustained winds of 155 mph, is expected to gradually weaken before making landfall on Monday. The storm’s projected path includes the small fishing community of San Juanico, where basic services are limited.
San Juanico’s residents, who have only had full‑time electricity for a couple of years, face significant challenges in the event of a storm. The town’s closest gas station is located far away, and fuel is often stored in tanks that run out during high demand. The community is also concerned about access to food, water, and medical care if roads become washed out.
Local hotel manager Gloriely Robles Meza expressed worry that the town will have to prepare on its own, converting the elementary school into a shelter and hoping that heavy machinery and emergency generators will be prepositioned by authorities. American expatriate Jeffrey Westman, who owns property in San Juanico, also voiced concerns about road access and the ability to receive supplies during a storm.
What Happens Next?
Hawaii officials are monitoring Nolo’s progress closely and will issue updates as the storm approaches. Residents should keep emergency kits ready, stay away from flooded areas, and follow guidance from local authorities. The National Hurricane Center will continue to provide real‑time updates on Nolo’s intensity and track.
In Mexico, authorities are preparing for Polo’s arrival by reinforcing coastal defenses and coordinating with local emergency services. The community in San Juanico is hoping that Polo will lose strength before making landfall, but officials remain on high alert.
Both storms underscore the importance of preparedness in the face of increasingly frequent and intense tropical cyclones in the Pacific region.
Key facts
- Hurricane Nolo is a Category 3 storm approaching the Big Island with up to 20 inches of rain
- Emergency declaration and National Guard activation in Hawaii
- Hawaiian Electric crews ready to restore power
- Communities still recovering from Hurricane Lala face higher risk
- Hurricane Polo threatens San Juanico in Baja California with limited infrastructure
Why it matters
The article informs residents and travelers of imminent hurricane threats, emphasizing preparedness and highlighting the compounded risks for communities already recovering from recent storms.
Frequently asked questions
What is the current category of Hurricane Nolo?
Nolo is currently a Category 3 storm with sustained winds of 105 mph.
How much rain is expected on the Big Island?
Forecasts predict up to 20 inches of rain in some parts of the island.
Will the National Guard be deployed?
Yes, hundreds of National Guard members have been activated as part of the emergency proclamation.
What should residents do to prepare?
Residents should assemble emergency kits, secure loose objects, avoid unnecessary travel, and seek shelter if advised.
Is there a risk of power outages?
Yes, Hawaiian Electric is preparing for potential outages caused by strong winds and flooding.
What is the situation in San Juanico?
The town has limited electricity, fuel, and access to supplies, and is preparing to convert the elementary school into a shelter.
Will Polo weaken before landfall?
Forecasts suggest Polo will gradually weaken before making landfall on Monday.
