Hurricane Olivia could bring tropical storm conditions to Hawaii starting Tuesday, according to the latest forecast from the National Hurricane Center.
The storm is currently 655 miles east of Honolulu, with maximum sustained winds of 85 mph. Tropical storm watches are in effect for Oahu, Maui County (including the islands of Maui, Molokai, Lanai and Kahoolawe) and Hawaii County. A tropical storm warning could be required for some places in the watch area later today or tonight, the National Hurricane Center said.
Currently Hurricane Olivia is moving west, and it is expected to turn west-southwest later today. The storm is expected to continue moving in that direction through Tuesday evening, a track which would set it on course to bring tropical storm conditions to Hawaii on Tuesday.
In addition to tropical storm-force winds in the watch area, the National Hurricane Center warns that the storm could produce between 10 and 15 inches of rain, or up to 20 inches in some areas, especially the windward sides of Maui and the Big Island. This rainfall may produce life-threatening flash flooding. In addition, east-facing shorelines could face large swells and damaging surf conditions.
In its latest statement the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) is advising residents and visitors to be prepared for the storm, including having access to an adequate supply of food, water, medications and essential goods, as well as following the instructions of the state’s civil defense officials.
No flight change waivers are currently in effect due to the storm.
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