Hawaii Declares State of Emergency as Hurricane Lowell Approaches

HONOLULU — Hurricane Lowell is approaching Hawaii as a powerful Category 3 storm, bringing threats of heavy rain, flooding, dangerous surf, and strong winds. The state has declared an emergency as Kauai and Niihau prepare for potentially hazardous conditions. Here are the latest warnings!

Hurricane Lowell is approaching Hawaii

Hurricane Lowell Strengthens as It Approaches Hawaii 

Hurricane Lowell is approaching Hawaii from the southwest as a powerful Category 3 storm, with maximum sustained winds of about 120 mph. 

The hurricane was located roughly 535 miles south-southwest of Lihue and was moving north at about 6 mph.

The storm is expected to continue northward toward the western Hawaiian Islands before passing west of the islands.

Current forecasts place Lowell about 130 miles west of Niihau and 170 miles west of Kauai. 

It is expected to weaken to a Category 2 hurricane as it moves past the islands, although the exact track could still shift.

A tropical storm warning is in effect for Kauai and Niihau, where tropical-storm conditions are expected as Lowell moves nearby.

Hawaii officials have also declared a state of emergency ahead of the storm, allowing the state to mobilize resources and prepare for possible impacts.

Stay ahead of Hurricane Lowell’s changing track - check real-time wind speeds and hourly updates for Kauai!

Forecast models now favor an offshore path, which would keep the center of Lowell west of the islands rather than bringing a direct landfall. 

Still, forecasters continue to monitor the storm closely because even a small change in its track could alter conditions across western Hawaii.

Hurricane Lowell is heading towards Hawaii from the Southwest

Source: CNN

Life-Threatening Surf and Heavy Rain Risks

Hurricane Lowell is expected to bring dangerous surf and heavy rainfall to parts of Hawaii as it passes west of the islands. 

Large swells could create life-threatening surf and rip currents, especially along exposed beaches, while coastal areas could also face flooding and inundation.

Kauai and Niihau are forecast to receive around 6 to 10 inches of rain, with isolated totals reaching 14 inches.

The Big Island could see 4 to 8 inches, with some locations receiving up to 12 inches. 

The heaviest rain could trigger flash flooding and mudslides, particularly in vulnerable areas of Kauai and the Big Island.

The combination of large waves, high tides and storm conditions could also push seawater into low-lying coastal areas.

On Kauai, coastal flooding and inundation are possible as Lowell passes nearby.

The National Hurricane Center advises residents and visitors to stay alert as conditions deteriorate. 

People in affected areas should avoid dangerous beaches and waterways, secure essential supplies and follow local emergency instructions as the storm approaches.

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Hurricane Lowell is forecast to bring dangerous surf and heavy rainfall

Hurricane Lowell Is the Latest Storm to Threaten Hawaii

Hurricane Lowell is the third tropical system to threaten Hawaii in just over three weeks, following Hurricane Lala and Tropical Storm Moke. 

Lala caused significant damage, particularly on the Big Island, while Moke brought another round of tropical weather to the islands. 

The repeated threats have made this an unusually active period for Hawaii.

The Pacific has also seen three hurricanes active at the same time: Lowell, Karina and Marie. 

While Karina and Marie were not posing the same threat to Hawaii, their presence highlights the high level of tropical activity across the Pacific.

Satellite image of hurricanes Lowell, Karina, and Marie on Friday, Sep 4, 2026

Source: RAMMB/CIRA/CSU

The active pattern comes as a strong El Niño develops across the Pacific.

Unusually warm ocean waters can provide more energy for tropical cyclones and influence atmospheric conditions that support storm development. 

El Niño does not directly cause Lowell, but it can create a more favorable environment for tropical activity.

Hawaii officials are urging residents to prepare essential supplies and first-aid kits and continue monitoring updates from the Central Pacific Hurricane Center (CPHC).

People are also advised to stay away from beaches and avoid swimming or surfing in areas under high-surf warnings. 

Dangerous waves and strong currents can pose serious risks even when the storm remains offshore.

Stay ahead of the storm. Check Kauai’s 3-day forecast for the latest rain, wind, and weather conditions.