Hurricane Lowell triggers tornado watch and flash flood warning as dangerous conditions hit Kauaʻi

Hurricane Lowell is creating dangerous weather conditions across Hawaii, with officials issuing a Hurricane Warning, Flash Flood Warning and Tornado Watch for Kauaʻi County as the powerful storm approaches the islands.

According to the National Weather Service, Lowell was about 170 miles southwest of Lihue and 230 miles southwest of Honolulu as of the latest update Monday. The storm was moving north-northeast at about 18 mph.

Lowell was classified as a Category 2 hurricane, with maximum sustained winds of 110 mph. Hurricane-force winds extended as far as 70 miles from the storm’s center, while tropical-storm-force winds reached up to 175 miles.

Forecasters expect the core of Lowell to move near or just west of Niʻihau Monday night and early Tuesday (8) before turning northwest and slowing by early Wednesday (9).

Tornado threat adds to danger

The National Weather Service issued a Tornado Watch for Kauaʻi County through Tuesday morning, warning that atmospheric conditions are favorable for tornado development.

Officials stressed that a Tornado Watch does not mean a tornado has been spotted. However, several tornadoes could develop near Kauaʻi and Niʻihau from Monday afternoon into the night.

Residents were urged to remain alert and stay indoors when dangerous weather moves into their area. Forecasters also warned that tornadoes could occur on other Hawaiian islands.

Heavy rain raises flash-flood concerns

Kauaʻi is also facing a significant flooding threat as heavy rain moves across the island.

The National Weather Service reported rapid rises in water levels along the South Fork of the Wailua River after intense rainfall upstream. The Hanalei River gauge also showed rising water levels, raising concerns about flooding near Kūhiō Highway and the Hanalei bridge.

No road closures had been reported at the time of the update, but residents were advised to monitor local authorities for changing road conditions.

Kauaʻi could receive 6 to 10 inches of rain, with isolated totals reaching 16 inches.

Dangerous winds, waves and rainfall expected

Forecasters warned that winds around the hills and mountains of Kauaʻi can be significantly stronger than winds measured near the surface.

Oʻahu remains under a tropical storm warning, while Maui and Oʻahu could receive 4 to 8 inches of rain, with isolated totals of up to 10 inches. Hawaiʻi Island could see 4 to 8 inches, with isolated amounts reaching 12 inches.

Officials continue to warn residents and visitors about flash flooding, damaging waves, high winds and possible tornadoes as Hurricane Lowell moves through the Hawaiian Islands.