Officials monitoring Tropical Storm Lowell
National Weather Service, National Hurricane Center and Hawai‘i County are monitoring a new tropical cyclone south of the state, which as of now does not present an immediate threat to the state.
Tropical Storm Lowell as of about 5 a.m. today (Aug. 29) was located about 1,370 miles east-southeast of Hilo, moving west at 8 mph.
Lowell is generating sustained winds of 45 mph, with higher gusts; tropical storm force winds extend outward 70 miles from the storm’s center.
It will be monitored closely and the public kept informed of any developments even though it is not posing an immediate threat to Hawai‘i.
“As we continue through hurricane season, residents and businesses are encouraged to review and develop preparedness plans,” said Hawai‘i County Civil Defense in a Saturday morning message. “National Weather Service had previously forecast this hurricane season to be more active than usual and the possibility of above average tropical cyclone activity in our area.”
Civil Defense advises the community to continue monitoring local radio broadcasts for any official advisories.
Contact the agency at 808-935-0031 or visit the Civil Defense website with any questions or if you require assistance.
You also can visit the Hawai‘i County Hazard Impact Map for additional information.
National Hurricane Center forecasters reported in an 11 a.m. Tropical Storm Lowell update Saturday that the storm had jogged west-northwest since earlier that morning and was about 1,275 miles east-southeast of Hilo.
Lowell was moving faster, too, now at 13 mph and continuing on a west-northwest trek. Maximum sustained winds were unchanged, with higher gusts, and tropical storm force winds still extended outward up to 70 miles from the storm’s center.
A westward motion should resume during the next few hours and continue for the next several days.
Gradual strengthening is expected during the weekend. Lowell could become a hurricane by Monday or Monday night.
There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect.
