Civil Defense: Darby Forecast to Pass South of Big Island Saturday

Hawai‘i County Civil Defense reports that Hurricane Darby is expected to pass south of the Big Island this weekend.

“Darby is forecast to pass south of Hawai‘i Island on Saturday, bringing breezy trade winds, 3-5 inches of rain and 8-12 foot waves to east-facing shores … ,” the agency said in a Hurricane Darby update at noon Thursday, July 14.

The Central Pacific Hurricane Center reported at 11 a.m. today that Darby is now a Category 2 storm, after re-intensifying Wednesday, July 13. As of 11 a.m. Thursday, the hurricane has sustained winds of 100 mph and is located 870 miles east-southeast of Hilo. It’s heading west at 16 mph and continues to rapidly weaken.

“Starting Friday (July 15), the National Weather Service anticipates 15-20 waves from a separate swell coming from the southern hemisphere and may possibly issue a high surf warning for south-facing shores of Hawai’i Island through Saturday,” the Civil Defense update said.

In preparation for Darby, the agency advices the public to secure outdoor items from possible wind damage and to address flooding concerns. It also said beachgoers, swimmers and surfers should exercise caution as strong breaking waves, shore break and rip currents because of the high surf are expected and will make swimming difficult and dangerous.

Beaches also could be closed without notice.

“Stay tuned to your radio for updates and changes in conditions,” Civil Defense said. “Mahalo for your kokua.”