Officials warn of heavy rain, strong winds and flood risk for the Big Island and other main islands after Tropical Depression Fifteen-E strengthened less than 400 miles from the Big Island and is forecast to become Tropical Storm Nolo and then a hurricane.
Gov. Josh Green declared a statewide emergency as Tropical Depression Fifteen-E approached within 400 miles of the Big Island.
The system is expected to become Tropical Storm Nolo by Wednesday night and a hurricane by Thursday, with forecasts projecting winds above 74 mph and the potential to reach Category 2 strength.
AccuWeather warned of heavy rainfall—up to 18 inches in places—over at least three days, with flooding and mudslides likely, especially if the storm stalls.
# What happened
# Forecast and timing Tropical Depression Fifteen-E formed Wednesday morning. Forecasts referenced in the report say it is expected to become Tropical Storm Nolo by Wednesday night and reach hurricane strength (winds above 74 mph) by Thursday. Officials cautioned the system could reach Category 2 strength as it nears landfall.
AccuWeather projections call for heavy rain for at least three days, with the possibility of longer impacts if the storm stalls. A stall could extend drenching conditions to five or six days in some areas.
# Primary hazards
# Local context and vulnerability
# Official messaging and response Gov. Josh Green described the storm as posing an "imminent danger" to the islands, especially the Big Island and Maui, and declared a statewide emergency to mobilize resources. AccuWeather meteorologists urged residents to take the threat seriously and prepare before flood or wind impacts begin. The report also notes federal assistance steps were pursued as the event unfolded.
# What residents should note now Officials urged immediate preparation given the rapid forecasted intensification and the rain and flood risks. The heaviest rainfall window begins on Wednesday afternoon for the Big Island, with the rest of the state facing increasing rain and flash-flood potential by Friday afternoon according to the forecast timeline.
# Bottom line A rapidly strengthening tropical system near the Big Island prompted a statewide emergency for Hawaii. The primary short-term threats are heavy, potentially prolonged rainfall causing flooding and mudslides, and hurricane-force winds. The islands' recent storm damage increases vulnerability in many communities.
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