Hurricane Lowell intensified into a powerful Category 3 storm with sustained winds of 125 mph as it began shifting northward, threatening the Hawaiian Islands with heavy rainfall, dangerous surf, and coastal flooding, according to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center.
Hurricane Lowell Track and Intensity Forecast
As of the 11 p.m. advisory update on Sept. 5, 2026, Hurricane Lowell was located about 610 miles south-southwest of Līhuʻe, moving northwest at 5 mph. The system features hurricane-force winds extending outward up to 45 mph, while tropical storm-force winds reach up to 175 miles from the center, according to forecasters. Some intensity fluctuations remain possible through early Sunday, followed by a gradual weakening trend starting Sunday and Monday.
Forecasters project that Lowell’s eye will make its closest approach to the main Hawaiian Islands on Monday night, passing 100 to 200 miles west of Niʻihau. According to the National Weather Service, the storm is expected to move across portions of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, just west of the main islands, during this closest approach.
Watches, Warnings, and Potential Wind Impacts
A tropical storm watch remains in effect for Kauaʻi County, which encompasses Kauaʻi and Niʻihau. Additionally, a hurricane watch is active for the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument from Nīhoa to French Frigate Shoals, as reported by the Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Tropical storm conditions could reach Kauaʻi County by late Monday or Monday night, while hurricane conditions are possible Monday night in eastern portions of the monument.
Pro Tip: County emergency officials encourage residents to text HAWAIIALERTS to 888777 to receive real-time updates directly to their mobile devices.
National WeatherService graphics indicate that Kauaʻi County faces a 10% to 60% chance of experiencing tropical storm-force winds ranging from 39 mph to 73 mph, depending on the specific location. The earliest arrival time for these winds is slated for sometime after 8 a.m. Monday.
Rainfall Totals and Flood Risks Across the Islands
A flood watch is in effect for the entire state as Hurricane Lowell draws closer. Peak rainfall amounts throughout Kauaʻi County are expected to reach 4 to 8 inches, with maximum totals possibly exceeding 12 inches in isolated areas, according to forecasters. Significant flash flooding and mudslides could result from this heavy rainfall, particularly on Kauaʻi and parts of the Big Island.
Precipitation forecasts for other islands vary significantly:
- The Big Island: 2 to 6 inches of rainfall, with isolated totals up to 10 inches.
- Maui: 2 to 4 inches of rain, with isolated maximum totals of 8 inches.
- Remaining Main Hawaiian Islands: 2 to 4 inches of rain.
Coastal Flooding, High Surf, and Secondary Threats
Localized storm surge could bring 1 to 3 feet of inundation above ground to surge-prone areas in Kauaʻi County from Monday afternoon through Tuesday afternoon. The deepest waters will materialize along the immediate coast near and to the right of Lowell’s center, driven by large and destructive waves. A high surf advisory covering south and east shorelines statewide, along with west shores of the Big Island, has been extended through Tuesday morning.
Swells generated by Hurricane Lowell and Tropical Storm Karina are producing surf heights up to 14 feet along eastern shorelines and up to 12 feet along south-facing shores, which will increase to 14 feet by Sunday night. Western shorelines should expect waves up to 10 feet. Forecasters note that the advisory will likely be upgraded to a high surf warning starting Sunday night into Monday.
Did You Know? The approaching storm has drawn comparisons among local residents to Hurricane ʻIniki, a catastrophic Category 4 hurricane that struck Kauaʻi and killed seven people in 1992.
Furthermore, atmospheric conditions will become favorable for fast-moving, short-lived waterspouts and tornadoes embedded within Lowell’s rainbands. This secondary threat focuses primarily on Kauaʻi and Niʻihau starting later Monday and continuing through Monday night before diminishing quickly Tuesday morning.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Hurricane Lowell make its closest approach to Hawaii?
What areas are currently under a tropical storm watch?
Kauaʻi County, which includes Kauaʻi and Niʻihau, is under a tropical storm watch. A hurricane watch is also in effect for the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument from Nīhoa to French Frigate Shoals.
How much rain is expected on Kauaʻi?
Peak rainfall amounts across Kauaʻi County are expected to reach 4 to 8 inches, with maximum totals potentially exceeding 12 inches in certain locations, creating a high risk for flash flooding and mudslides.
Who should travelers contact for flight and accommodation updates?
Visitors should confirm all travel plans directly with airlines and hotels, or call the visitor information line at 1-800-GOHAWAII.
Stay Informed and Prepared
Officials urge residents and visitors to monitor official forecasts, secure outdoor items, charge electronic devices, and avoid unnecessary travel as weather conditions deteriorate. Never drive, walk, or swim through floodwaters. For community-specific guidance or assistance, residents can contact Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense at 808-935-0031 or consult the Hawaiʻi County Hazard Impact Map online.