Normally, the tropical island of Hawaii comes close to being a paradise. However, with an unusually active hurricane season looming overhead Hawaii will be much less of a paradise. Hurricane Hone made headlines this weekend as it swept past the Hawaiian Islands, bringing heavy rain and high winds.
With sustained winds reaching 80 mph, the storm left a mark on the Big Island and surrounding areas and lots of destruction and complications despite being the lowest level category of hurricanes.
Overview of Hurricane Hone’s Path
Hurricane Hone, a Category 1 storm, reached its closest point to Hawai’i on Sunday morning, passing about 45 miles south-southwest of South Point on the Big Island.
Despite not making direct landfall, the storm made its presence known. The storm’s effects were felt across the islands, particularly in the Big Island.
Winds Reaching 80 mph
The hurricane packed maximum sustained winds of 80 mph, with gusts that caused significant disruptions. The National Hurricane Center issued multiple warnings, including a high wind warning for areas south of the Big Island. A flash flood warning was also in effect, highlighting the storm’s potential for widespread impact.
What Is a Category 1 Storm?
A Category 1 storm is the lowest level on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. They may be the lowest level, but their level of danger should not be undermined!
These storms have sustained winds ranging from 74 to 95 mph. While they are the least severe in terms of wind speed, Category 1 storms can still cause significant damage, including power outages, fallen trees, and structural damage.
Rainfall and Flooding Concerns
Hurricane Hone brought torrential rains, with some areas of the Big Island receiving over 18 inches of rain. This heavy rainfall led to flash flooding, particularly in windward areas. The National Weather Service estimated an additional 3 to 5 inches of rain, increasing the risk of flooding and mudslides in mountainous regions.
Leaving 26,000 Without Power
As Hurricane Hone moved past the Big Island, it left more than 26,000 utility customers without power. The majority of these outages were reported on the Big Island, with significant numbers also on Maui and Honolulu. Crews worked throughout the weekend to restore power as safely and quickly as possible.
Impact on South-Facing Shores
The storm’s proximity to the Big Island resulted in dangerous surf along south-facing shores. Beaches, including the popular Black Sand Beach in Punalu’u, were closed due to high waves and tide pools forming early in the morning. The strong surf continued to pound the shores throughout Sunday, creating hazardous conditions.
Road Closures and Landslides
Flooding and downed trees led to several road closures on the Big Island. Highway 11, a major route circling the island, was particularly affected. Maui also experienced a landslide on Hana Highway, temporarily closing the road. The Hawaii Department of Transportation was busy clearing debris to reopen these critical roads.
Flash Flooding in Pahala
Pahala, a small town on the Big Island, experienced severe flash flooding. Videos showed water rushing across access roads, with three sections of Hawaii Belt Road overtopped by floodwaters.
This flooding and its serious effects especially highlight that even though it’s “just” a category 1 storm, the aftermath can still be quite disastrous.
Hurricane Hone’s Aftermath
By late Sunday, the worst of the storm had thankfully passed. However, the many effects still lingered.
Hikers witnessed the powerful Rainbow Waterfall in Hilo intensified by the heavy rains. While this was a majestic sight, it underscores the power of nature’s forces and how we can do so little to tame it.
By Monday, winds and rain had diminished, but the cleanup and recovery efforts were just beginning across the islands.
Other Storms in the Pacific
Hurricane Hone wasn’t the only storm in the Pacific. This is to be expected seeing as it is hurricane season, but what makes it worrisome is that even though it’s just the start of the season, we can already tell that it will be an unusually active one.
The National Hurricane Center also monitored Hurricane Gilma, a Category 3 storm with sustained winds of 115 mph, and Tropical Storm Hector. Luckily, they occurred far from land, but it makes us fear what might come next.
Climate Change and Ocean Temperatures
The intensity and frequency of storms like Hurricane Hone have been linked to climate change. Warmer ocean temperatures, fueled by global warming, provide more energy for hurricanes to develop.
This year, sea surface temperatures around Hawai’i have been particularly high, making such powerful storms more likely.
How to Prepare for Hurricanes
Preparing for hurricanes involves several key steps: securing your home, gathering emergency supplies, and staying informed. Secure windows and doors with shutters or plywood, and bring outdoor furniture indoors. Stock up on essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, and batteries.
Once a hurricane arrives, make sure to monitor local news for updates, and know your evacuation routes in case of mandatory orders.
Hurricane Hone serves as a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of readiness in the face of such events. As recovery efforts continue, Hawai’i braces for what the rest of the hurricane season may bring.
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