Tropical Storm Hone is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain to Hawaii this weekend, particularly affecting the Big Island and Maui. Forecasters believe it could strengthen to a Category 1 hurricane as it passes south of the island chain. A tropical storm watch is in effect for Hawaii County, including the entire Big Island. While the storm is not expected to create the same conditions that fueled a deadly wildfire in Maui last year, residents are being advised to prepare for potential impacts.
The storm, named Hone, is predicted to bring sustained winds of 20 to 30 mph and gusts of 50 mph to Maui and the Big Island, with Oahu and Kauai expected to experience slightly weaker winds. 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. These predictions are subject to change depending on the storm’s path, as it was located about 470 miles east-southeast of Hilo and moving west at 16 mph with maximum sustained winds of 50 mph as of Friday afternoon.
The dry conditions across Hawaii have led to moderate to extreme drought in many parts of the state, increasing concerns about wildfires. Last year, a powerful hurricane passing south of Hawaii and a strong high-pressure system to the north contributed to a deadly wildfire in Maui’s Lahaina town. While there are concerns about fire risk this year due to dry conditions, the current weather patterns are not as severe as seen last year. Additionally, Hurricane Gilma is moving west across the Pacific with maximum sustained winds of 105 mph but is expected to weaken to a tropical depression before reaching the Big Island.
To reduce the risk of wildfires, the state’s electric utilities have begun preemptively shutting off power during high winds and dry conditions. Additionally, efforts have been made to improve communication and alerts in the event of a wildfire threat. Last year, Maui County officials failed to activate outdoor sirens to warn people of the approaching flames, relying instead on social media posts that reached a smaller audience. The new administrator of the Maui Emergency Management Agency has stated that alerts will now be sent through various channels, including radio and television broadcasts, cellphones, and outdoor sirens.
The tragic blaze in Lahaina last year, ignited by strong winds toppling power poles and possibly bare electrical wire, resulted in the deadliest wildfire in the United States in over a century. While the exact cause of the fire has not been determined, efforts are being made to prevent similar disasters in the future. With Tropical Storm Hone approaching the region, residents are urged to stay informed, prepare for potential impacts, and heed any evacuation orders or safety warnings issued by local authorities.
