A tropical storm is forecasted to impact Hawaii this weekend, particularly affecting the Big Island and Maui as it moves south of the island chain. The National Weather Service has issued a tropical storm watch for Hawaii County, encompassing the entirety of the Big Island, in anticipation of Tropical Storm Hone.
As of the latest advisory, the storm is located approximately 770 miles east-southeast of Hilo and 980 miles east-southeast of Honolulu, moving west at 14 mph with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph. While memories of last year's hurricane-induced wildfire on Maui linger, the weather service has clarified that Hone is not expected to create similar conditions.
Meanwhile, Hurricane Gilma is progressing westward in the Pacific, with uncertainties about its potential impact on the islands. Hone is projected to bring sustained winds of 20 to 30 mph and gusts of 50 mph to Maui and the Big Island, with slightly weaker winds expected for Oahu and Kauai.
The Big Island's east coast and southeastern corner could receive 4 to 8 inches of rain, while Maui may see 2 to 4 inches from Saturday night through Sunday night. These estimates are subject to change based on the storm's trajectory.
Although concerns about fire risk due to drier air moving into the western part of the state have been raised, meteorologists assure that the conditions are not as severe as last year. The state's climatologist also noted that the current pressure systems and tropical storm are less intense compared to the circumstances preceding the Lahaina wildfire in 2023.
Hurricane Gilma, a Category 3 storm with sustained winds near 120 mph, is expected to gradually weaken over the weekend. In response to the wildfire threat, the state's electric utilities have implemented precautionary measures, including power shutdowns during high winds and dry conditions.
Following last year's communication challenges during the Lahaina fire, Maui County officials have pledged to improve alert systems, utilizing radio, television broadcasts, cellphones, and outdoor warning sirens in case of future emergencies.
