Wet and windy conditions likely over the weekend as Tropical Storm Hone approaches; Tropical Storm Watch issued for Big Island

Update: 5:21 p.m., Aug. 22, 2024

The NWS forecast calls for breezy trade winds persisting through Friday, with showers favoring windward and mauka locations.

The Central Pacific Hurricane Center is monitoring Tropical Storm Hone, located far east-southeast of the state, and currently tracking westward. “While it is too early to determine the exact impacts, a transition to a wet and windy period is likely over the weekend through early next week as this tropical storm approaches and moves into the area,” according to the National Weather Service.

As of 5 p.m. on Aug. 22, Tropical Storm Hone was last located 810 miles ESE of Hilo, Hawaiʻi; 895 miles ESE of Hāna, Maui; 925 miles ESE of Kahului, Maui; and 1025 miles ESE of Honolulu, Oʻahu.

Meanwhile, Hurricane Gilma, located in the Eastern Pacific. As of 5 p.m. on Aug. 22, Gilma was listed as a Category 3 system located 1945 miles E of Hilo, Hawaiʻi; 2000 miles ESE of Hāna, Maui; 2035 miles ESE of Kahului, Maui; and 2130 miles ESE of Honolulu, Oʻahu.

The National Weather Service has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for Pāhala and Nāʻālehu on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi. The watch is also in effect for area waters including the ʻAlenuihāhā Channel, and Big Island leeward and southeast waters.

A Tropical Storm Watch means tropical storm-force winds are possible somewhere within this area within the next 48 hours

The latest forecast calls for below tropical storm force winds, with the peak winds forecast at 20-30 mph with gusts of up to 40 mph. Forecasters say there is still uncertainty around track, size and intensity, with a potential threat of hazardous winds of 39 to 57 mph.

The NWS is forecasting little to no storm surge flooding, but warns of the possibility for rough surf, coastal erosion, and life-threatening rip currents.

There is also a Flood Watch in effect with 3-6 inches of rain possible, with locally higher amounts. Forecasters say there is a potential for moderate flooding rain.