Hurricane Watch Issued for Big Island East
The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a Hurricane Watch for the Big Island East area, including Hilo, Pahoa, and Volcano. Residents are advised to complete preparations to protect life and property as soon as possible.
According to the National Weather Service in Honolulu, the Hurricane Watch was issued on September 24 at 4:53 PM HST. The affected locations include Hilo, Pahoa, and Volcano.
The latest local forecast indicates equivalent tropical storm force winds, with a peak wind forecast of 30 to 40 mph and gusts reaching up to 60 mph. There is also a potential for winds ranging from 58 to 73 mph, accounting for typical forecast uncertainty in track, size, and intensity. The window for tropical storm force winds is expected from Friday afternoon until Saturday afternoon.
Potential impacts include significant damage such as harm to roofing, siding materials, porches, awnings, carports, and sheds, as well as potential window, door, and garage door failures on a few buildings. Unanchored mobile homes may sustain damage, and unsecured lightweight objects could become dangerous projectiles. Several large trees may be snapped or uprooted, with greater numbers in areas with shallow roots, alongside blown-over fences and roadway signs.
Additional disruptions may include roads rendered impassable by large debris, particularly in urban or heavily wooded areas, along with a few impassable bridges, causeways, and access routes. Scattered power and communications outages are also anticipated, being more prevalent in areas with above-ground lines.