The National Weather Service office in Honolulu has issued a Tropical Storm Warning for the Big Island of Hawaii and nearby waters, issued at 10:56 PM HST on September 25. A tropical storm warning means tropical storm conditions — sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph, heavy rain, and rough seas — are expected within the warned area, typically within 36 hours.
The warning currently covers 12 areas, including Big Island East, Southeast, South, North, Interior, Kohala, Kona, and the Big Island Summit, along with the Alenuihaha Channel (the often-rough stretch of water between the Big Island and Maui) and Big Island windward waters. In short, the entire island and its surrounding nearshore waters are under this alert.
What Residents and Visitors May Notice
Expect strengthening winds, periods of heavy rainfall, and rapidly deteriorating ocean conditions. Higher elevations, including the Big Island Summit area, can see even stronger gusts and heavy rain. Flash flooding is possible in windward and upslope areas, and streams can rise quickly. Small craft should remain in port, and ocean activities should be postponed. Inter-island flights and ferry or boating operations may face delays or cancellations as conditions worsen.
What to Do Now
Secure or bring indoors loose outdoor items such as patio furniture, trash bins, and plants. Charge phones and devices, and top off vehicle fuel in case of power outages. Avoid hiking near streams or waterfalls and stay out of the ocean — surf and currents become dangerous well before the worst winds arrive. Follow instructions from Hawaii County Civil Defense and monitor official forecasts for updates on the storm’s track and timing.
Warnings like this are issued to give residents lead time to prepare — most tropical storm impacts in Hawaii come from rain and flooding rather than wind alone, so even areas sheltered from the strongest gusts should stay alert to rising water. This information comes from the National Weather Service (NOAA) office in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do right now?
Secure outdoor items, charge devices, and avoid the ocean and stream valleys. Finish preparations soon — the warning means tropical storm conditions are expected, generally within about 36 hours.
Which parts of the Big Island are affected?
Essentially the whole island: windward, leeward (Kona/Kohala), interior, summit, and coastal zones are all included, plus the Alenuihaha Channel and windward waters. No district is outside the warning area.
Will flights in and out of the Big Island be cancelled?
Not necessarily, but delays and cancellations become more likely as winds strengthen. Check directly with your airline before heading to the airport.
Is flooding a concern even if winds aren't extreme?
Yes. Tropical storms in Hawaii often cause more damage from heavy rain and flash flooding than from wind, especially on windward slopes and near streams. Avoid low-water crossings and never drive through flooded roads.
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 2.7; 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.
