Hurricane Nolo threatens Hawaii with severe winds and flooding
Hurricane Nolo is expected to bring heavy rain, powerful winds, flash floods, and extreme surf to Hawaii over the weekend. The storm was south of the Big Island with maximum sustained winds of 105mph and could strengthen. Residents are preparing, and federal emergency assistance has been approved as communities recover from previous storms.
Nolo was moving slowly south of the Big Island on Saturday, with sustained winds near 105 mph. Its center sat roughly 145 miles from Hawaii’s southernmost point, and forecasters said it might grow stronger. Big Island rainfall could reach 20 inches, raising flood and mudslide risks; other islands also expected heavy rain.
Federal emergency aid was approved, letting FEMA coordinate support. Hawaii’s governor issued an emergency order and activated hundreds of National Guard members. Residents are still recovering from Hurricane Lala, which knocked about 100 Big Island homes from their foundations, while utility crews returned from Kauai after Hurricane Lowell.
The storm may disrupt daily life across Hawaii, especially on the Big Island, where residents already recovering from prior storms could face evacuations, power outages, road closures, and property damage. Travelers and businesses may see delays, while emergency crews and shelters could be stretched. Federal and state support may help, but recovery could take time.