More than ‘Just Another Raining Day’ on the Big Island: Tropical Storm Hone Starts to Make an Impact

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Island on Alert

A relative quiet hung over middle Kaʻūmana early this morning in Hilo town. The familiar chirps, clicks, coos and songs of the finches, mynas, doves, and java sparrows were muted, nearly absent, as just a few of the neighborhood’s avian allies ventured out compared to the usually vibrant chorus and bustling activity most other days. In stark contrast to the usual flurry of activity, it seemed nature was aware that something was coming. The Big Island remains under a tropical storm warning as Tropical Storm Hone is now less than 150 miles away from the island and steadily approaching.

East-facing shores of the Big Island are experiencing high surf conditions, with large and disorganized surf forecast to rapidly rise to 14 to 18 feet as the storm approaches. High winds and flooding rains are forecast to start impacting the island as early as this evening, continuing into early Sunday. Portions of the Big Island have already seen sustained winds around 30 mph with predictions of increasing strength that could become locally damaging by nightfall.

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Precautions and Preparations Underway

A flood watch and high surf warning for east-facing shores remain in effect with warnings of possible flash flooding throughout Hāmākua, Hilo, Puna, and Kaʻū. A few lingering thunderstorms and heavy showers could persist over portions of the island into Monday, especially over leeward and upslope areas. Hawai‘i Gov. Josh Green issued an emergency proclamation relating to Hone to ensure that state resources are available to help as needed in response to the storm’s arrival and any aftermath.

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Public Shelters Opened

Hawai‘i County has opened public shelters for anyone who needs them. These include temporary shelters at Kaʻū Herkes Gym, Nāʻālehu Elementary School cafeteria, Pāhoa High School gym, Kea’au High School library and G Building, Mountain View Elementary School cafeteria, and Waiākea High School gym. Those seeking shelter should prepare all personal items to stay overnight and make sure to arrive at a shelter no later than 6 p.m.

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Road and Airport Closures

With the storm’s arrival, road closures have started in areas such as Waipiʻo Valley Access Road and Kohala Mountain Road due to a downed tree. Hele On Bus Service has canceled routes through the weekend. The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation also announced that Hilo International Airport terminal is open; however, there will be no further flights out tonight because of the storm. Individuals are being cautioned to not come to the airport unless they have a confirmed flight.

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Hone’s Impact

Reports of power outages have already started flowing in, with over 8,500 residents left without power as night arrives. Locals are voicing concerns on social media about inability to get bottled water for their emergency needs. With the storm strengthening overnight Friday and turning more toward the Big Island, it has significantly increased the risk of serious damage and has residents remembering the devastating effects of Hurricane/Tropical Storm Iselle in 2014.

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A Storm to Remember?

It seems, for some, acknowledging the potential severity of Hone has been difficult. But when power lines are arcing, winds are gusting to potentially 80 mph, rainfall is excessive and flood threats are high, it’s certainly appropriate to view this as more than ‘just another rainy day’. “There are hazards out there that could be life-threatening, so take this seriously and don’t take chances,” warned Hawai‘i County Civil Defense Administrator Talmadge Magno. Everyone is urged to stay alert and safe over the coming hours as Hone makes landfall.