Nolo strengthens into a category 4 hurricane; on track to remain well S and SW of the main Hawaiian Islands

(5 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026) Nolo has strengthened into a category 4 hurricane and is forecast to remain well south and southwest of the main Hawaiian Islands. The system will approach the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument on Tuesday, according to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center.

At 5 p.m, the eye of Hurricane Nolo was located about 655 miles SE of French Frigate Shoals, and about 380 miles SSW of Honolulu. Nolo is moving toward the west-northwest near 12 mph. A gradual turn toward the northwest is forecast tonight, and will continue that motion through Tuesday, according tot eh National Weather Service.

Maximum sustained winds have increased to near 145 mph with higher gusts. Additional strengthening is forecast over the next day or so. Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 35 miles from the center and tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 150 miles.

A Hurricane Watch is in effect for the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument from Nihoa to French Frigate Shoals. Hurricane conditions are possible within the watch area. A watch is typically issued 48 hours before the anticipated first occurrence of tropical-storm-force winds, conditions that make outside preparations difficult or dangerous. Additional watches may be required for portions of the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument.

WIND: Hurricane conditions are possible in the Hurricane Watch area in the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument by Wednesday, with tropical storm conditions possible by Tuesday.

SURF: Swells generated by Nolo are affecting south-facing shores of the main Hawaiian Islands through the next few days. These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions. Large surf associated with Nolo will affect the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument beginning on Monday. These large waves will likely inundate some of the low-lying atolls, especially from French Frigate Shoals to Nihoa. Please consult products from your local weather office.