More than ‘just another raining day’ on the Big Island: Hone starts to make an impact

Honolulu, Hawaii – The skies over middle Kaʻūmana in Hilo town were unusually quiet this morning. The usually vibrant chorus of the finches, mynas, doves, and java sparrows was notably absent – as the Big Island braced for the arrival of Tropical Storm Hone, which is now less than 150 miles away.

Hone Approaches

The storm’s center is expected to pass just to the south of the island tonight and Sunday morning before moving west by early next week. Prior to the Honolulu forecasters issuing their 5 a.m. update for Hone, rain had already begun to fall. Our island has been under a steady shower since then, with times of heavy downpours and sideways curtains of rain.

Storm Details

As of 5 p.m., Hone was 125 miles south-southeast of Hilo and 105 miles southeast of South Point. It was about 160 miles southeast of Kailua-Kona. The strong tropical storm had sustained winds of 65 mph, just 9 miles shy of hurricane-force winds, with greater gusts. Hone continues to move west at 14 mph towards the Big Island, with tropical-storm-force winds extending up to 125 miles from the center.

Island Impact

High winds and flooding rains started impacting the island this evening and will continue through early Sunday. Already, portions of the Big Island have seen sustained winds around 30 mph which are expected to become locally damaging by nightfall. Rainfall of 2 to 4 inches has already fallen across windward areas of the island, and as Hone moves closer, bands of heavy showers and thunderstorms will likely intensify, leading to flash flooding, especially throughout Hāmākua, Hilo, Puna, and Kaʻū.

Emergency Preparations

Hawai’i Governor, Josh Green, issued an emergency proclamation to ensure that state resources are available for assistance in response to the storm’s arrival and imminent aftermath. Public shelters are open for anyone who needs them. However, anyone seeking shelter should prepare their own personal items and aim to arrive at the shelter no later than 6 p.m.

Anticipating Hone

With Hone’s significantly increased risk over the Big Island, some of its residents are experiencing veil reminders of Hurricane/Tropical Storm Iselle, which struck the island back in August 2014, causing damage in the hundreds of millions. Some residents expressed their fears of a repeat of Iselle on social media while others labeled Hone as “just another raining day”.

Final Thoughts

While some residents may downplay the danger posed by Tropical Storm Hone, it is essential to remember that weather conditions can change rapidly and unexpectedly. Ignoring official warnings and emergency proclamations can lead to life-threatening situations. Therefore, it is crucial to take these warnings seriously and make the necessary preparations to protect lives and property. Also, stay updated with accurate information about closures, preparedness, hazards, cancellations, and more from official sources.

Weathering the Storm

Even with the approaching tropical storm and the imposed dangers it brings, it is interesting to see how the island’s residents continue to display a resilient spirit. Despite the impending storm, many residents are still heading out for their regular activities, showing their determination to not let anything, not even a storm, disturb their daily lives.

Stay Safe

As Hone comes knocking at the doorstep of the Big Island, it brings along with it high winds, heavy rains, and potential flooding conditions. In these trying times, it is vital to remember – safety always comes first. Be prepared, stay informed, and most importantly, stay safe.