Early Tuesday, Hurricane Lowell unleashed strong winds and torrential rain on Hawaii’s western islands, raising the specter of flooding, mudslides and even isolated tornadoes. The National Hurricane Center warned that the storm’s tropical‑storm‑force winds stretched roughly 200 miles (320 kilometers) from its center, putting the islands of Kauai, Niihau and Oahu on high alert.
Warnings and official response
Governor Josh Green acted swiftly, ordering the closure of schools and government offices on Kauai, Niihau and Oahu for Tuesday. The move was intended to keep families and public‑sector employees out of harm’s way as the storm moved through the region. On Kauai, where the population exceeds 73,000, officials emphasized the risk of flash flooding and landslides, especially in low‑lying areas and near river valleys.
Eric Blake of the National Hurricane Center highlighted flooding and mudslides as the greatest threats for the day. He noted that while the storm’s eye passed west of the islands early Tuesday, sustained winds of just over 50 mph (80 kph) were recorded at Lihue Airport on Kauai, with gusts reaching 80 mph (130 kph) in isolated spots.
Impact on transportation and infrastructure
Road crews were already at work clearing sand and rocks from a major highway along Oahu’s western edge after floodwaters overtopped the road north of Honolulu. The National Weather Service warned that dangerous surf conditions could persist through the morning and possibly the entire day, adding to the challenges faced by commuters and emergency responders.
Rainfall totals on Kauai were projected to climb as high as 24 inches (60 centimeters) in the most vulnerable areas, a level that could overwhelm drainage systems and trigger additional landslides. Residents were urged to monitor local alerts, avoid low‑lying roads, and secure any loose outdoor items that could become projectiles in high winds.
Recent storm history
The islands have already felt the effects of tropical systems this season. Last month, Tropical Storm Lala brushed Hawaii, causing landslides that washed away roughly 100 homes and sparked widespread power outages. Those recent experiences underscore the importance of preparedness and swift governmental action.
Broader regional effects
While Hawaii dealt with Lowell, the remnants of Hurricane Marie continued to affect the West Coast. Dangerous surf conditions persisted along Southern California and Mexico’s Baja California, with life‑threatening waves and rip currents expected for several more days. In Malibu, a beachfront home’s driveway collapsed into a sinkhole after the pounding waves, prompting a response from the Los Angeles County Fire Department.
Authorities across the affected regions remain vigilant, urging residents to heed official warnings, stay indoors when possible, and keep emergency supplies on hand. As the storm weakens and moves farther offshore, officials will continue to assess damage and coordinate clean‑up efforts in the days ahead.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
