HONOLULU, Sept. 24, 2026 — Tropical Storm Nolo strengthened overnight as it turned north toward Hawaii, with the National Hurricane Center reporting maximum sustained winds of 50 mph at 11 p.m. HST Wednesday. A hurricane watch remains in effect for Hawaii County as the storm approaches the Big Island, and forecasters warn of potentially catastrophic, life-threatening flooding and mudslides.
The National Hurricane Center said Nolo was about 285 miles south of South Point at the latest advisory, moving north at 2 mph. The storm is forecast to strengthen further and approach Hawaii Island on Friday and Saturday. Forecast uncertainty remains important, particularly around the timing of an expected turn later in the week.
Rainfall totals of 15 to 20 inches are forecast across Hawaii Island, with isolated amounts up to 35 inches possible. Maui could receive 5 to 10 inches, with isolated totals up to 20 inches. Officials warn that flooding can occur even in areas that are not normally flood-prone.
Hawaii officials are already taking precautions. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources said state parks, camping areas, forest reserves, hiking trails, wildlife sanctuaries and other managed lands on Hawaii Island are closing Thursday, with closures on Maui and Molokai beginning Friday. Camping permits have been suspended until further notice.
Residents and visitors are being urged to follow official forecasts and local emergency instructions as the storm develops.
Sources: National Hurricane Center/Central Pacific Hurricane Center advisories and Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, Sept. 23-24, 2026.