The National Weather Service in Honolulu issued a Tropical Storm Warning at 4:59 AM HST on September 25, covering 12 zones across Hawaii’s Big Island and nearby waters. Affected areas include the Big Island Interior, North, South, East, and Southeast districts, Kohala, Kona, the Big Island Summit, the Alenuihaha Channel, and Big Island windward waters.
A Tropical Storm Warning means tropical-storm conditions — sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph — are expected within the warning area, generally within 36 hours. Residents and visitors on the Big Island should expect strong gusty winds, periods of heavy rain, and hazardous ocean conditions.
What You Might Notice
Winds will strengthen through the day, with the strongest gusts likely in exposed areas, higher elevations including the summit zone, and along the Kohala and windward coasts. Heavy showers may cause ponding on roads and localized flooding in low-lying and windward areas, which typically see the most rain. Boaters in the Alenuihaha Channel and windward waters should expect rough, dangerous seas — this channel between the Big Island and Maui is notorious for funneling winds and is best avoided entirely during tropical storm conditions. Power outages from downed tree limbs and lines are possible, especially in windward districts.
Sensible Steps to Take
First, secure or bring in loose outdoor items — patio furniture, trash cans, and anything that could become airborne in gusty winds. Second, avoid unnecessary travel during the heaviest weather, and never drive through flooded roadways; even shallow moving water can stall or sweep away a vehicle. Third, charge phones and devices now, and keep flashlights and fresh water handy in case of power interruptions.
Visitors with inter-island flights or ocean activities planned should check with airlines and tour operators, as delays and cancellations are likely while the warning is in effect. Conditions should gradually improve once the storm passes, but follow updates from local emergency management for official timing.
This information is based on the Tropical Storm Warning issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) office in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do right now?
Secure loose outdoor items, charge your devices, and avoid travel during the worst of the weather. Stay away from the ocean — the Alenuihaha Channel and windward waters are under warning and seas will be dangerous.
Which parts of the Big Island are affected?
All major districts are covered: Kona, Kohala, Hilo/windward side, the North, South, East, and Southeast areas, the interior, and the summit zone, along with surrounding waters. Essentially the entire island is under this warning.
Should I expect power outages?
Tropical-storm-force winds of 39 to 73 mph can bring down tree limbs and power lines, so scattered outages are possible. Charge devices now and keep flashlights ready as a precaution.
How long will this last?
Tropical Storm Warnings typically cover a window of about 24 to 36 hours while the system passes. Monitor NWS Honolulu updates and county emergency alerts for the latest timing and any changes to the warning.
Keep tracking this:
Source: National Weather Service (NWS)
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Sky & Solar Conditions at the Time
Moon: Full Moon (99% illuminated), in Pisces.
Notable planetary angles: none within a tight orb at this time.
Concurrent space weather: planetary Kp index 3.7; strongest recent solar flare: nothing notable.
This is a factual snapshot, not a claim of cause and effect – researchers are divided on whether lunar, planetary or solar factors influence seismic or weather activity. It’s included so readers can track the pattern for themselves over time.
