Powerful Hurricane Lowell is maintaining Category 4 strength as it moves west through the Central Pacific, prompting warnings from forecasters who predict a sharp turn toward the Hawaiian islands over the weekend. According to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center, the storm was located about 450 miles south of Hilo at 11 p.m. Wednesday, carrying maximum sustained winds of 145 mph while moving west at 10 mph.
Current Track and Forecasted Shift Toward Hawaii
Lowell is expected to continue its westward path before initiating a sharp north or north-northeast turn sometime on Saturday, according to forecasters at the Central Pacific Hurricane Center. The National Weather Service in Honolulu notes that while confidence remains low regarding the exact path, a major hurricane could impact the state next week. The latest forecast cone places the western side of Kauai in the potential path of the storm’s center. Forecasters stress that details of the turn remain extremely difficult to diagnose at this time range, urging residents to monitor updates closely.
Immediate Weather Impacts and Active Advisories
While the center of the hurricane remains hundreds of miles south of the islands, outer bands are already generating hazardous marine and wind conditions across the state. The National Weather Service has issued wind advisories for all islands from the Big Island to Oahu through 6 a.m. Friday. East winds of 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 55 mph are expected for Maui County and Hawaii island, while Oahu faces winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph. Additionally, a high surf advisory covers south and southeast shores through 6 p.m. Thursday, warning of large breaking waves between 7 and 10 feet and life-threatening rip currents.
Emergency Declarations and Statewide Preparations
In response to active storm activity in the Pacific, Hawaii Gov. Josh Green declared a statewide emergency on Sept. 2, citing multiple storms and ongoing recovery from Hurricane Lala, which struck the island chain in mid-August. State officials emphasize that the emergency proclamation is a procedural measure allowing for the mobilization of resources. Emergency management agencies advise all residents to review their hurricane plans and ensure emergency supply kits are fully stocked ahead of potential impacts next week.
Tracking Hurricane Karina in the East Pacific
Meanwhile, a second storm, Hurricane Karina, is approaching the region from the East Pacific. At 11 p.m. Wednesday, Karina was located about 1,260 miles east of Hilo with maximum sustained winds of 120 mph, operating as a Category 3 cyclone. The National Hurricane Center reports that Karina is moving west-northwest at 12 mph and is expected to cross into the Central Pacific on Friday while gradually weakening over the coming days.