Hector Intensifies to Category 3 Hurricane

Satellite imagery of Hector at 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 3, 2018. PC: NOAA/CPHC

Hurricane Hector maintained its intensity as a Category 3 system during the latest 11 p.m. update on Friday evening,  Aug. 3, 2018.

The National Hurricane Center says Hector is forecast to undergo short-term fluctuations in intensity during the next few days, but is expected to remain at or near major hurricane intensity through early next week.

The system is expected to move into the Central Pacific area (140W) late Sunday.

Hector was located about 1550 miles ESE of Hilo and 1650 miles ESE of Kahului as of 11 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 3, 2018.

As of 11 p.m., the system was moving west near 12 mph, and has sustained winds near 120 mph with higher gusts. Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 15 miles from the center and tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 80 miles.

Hurricane Hector updated track as of 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 3, 2018. PC: NHC/NOAA

According to the Saffir-Simpson Scale, a Category 1 Hurricane carries winds of 74-95 mph; Category 2 is 96-110 mph; Category 3 is 111-129; Category 4 is 130-156; and Category 5 is 157 mph and up.

“Hector is our first hurricane this year. We want to remind the public we are in the middle of the hurricane season and we urge people to take the weekend to prepare their homes and families for impacts that could be felt statewide,” said Tom Travis, Administrator of Emergency Management.

HI-EMA recommends residents and visitors take the following actions to prepare for any possible hurricane or tropical cyclone:

• · Prepare an “emergency kit” of a minimum of 14 days of food, water and other supplies.
• · Talk with family members and develop a clear understanding what you will do if a hurricane or tropical storm threatens. Prepare an action plan that includes details such as whether your family plans to shelter in place or evacuate.
• · Know if your home is in an inundation zone, flood zone, or susceptible to high winds and other hazards. Know if your home is retrofitted with hurricane resistant clips or straps.
• · Stay tuned to local media and their websites/applications regarding weather updates.
• · Sign up for local notification systems (i.e., HNL.Info).
• · Get to know your neighbors and community so you can help each other.
• · Walk your property and check for potential flood threats. Clear your gutters and other drainage systems. Remove and secure loose items. Keep your car gas tanks filled.
• · Prepare your pets by checking or purchasing a carrier and other preparedness items. A pet carrier is necessary for your pet’s safety if you plan to evacuate to a pet-friendly shelter. Don’t forget 14 days of food and water for your furry family members.
• · Set aside an emergency supply of any needed medication and keep a copy of your prescriptions in case you run out of medication after a disaster.
• · Secure your important documents in protective containers.
• · Visitors should download GoHawaii App and read the Hawaii Tourism Authority’s Travel Safety Brochure at http://www.travelsmarthawaii.com.
• · Build an emergency kit – now.

*Continue to check back for updates, which will be posted as they become available.