Thu Jan 30 13:20:00 IST 2025: **Hawaii Braces for Powerful Winter Storm System**
HONOLULU, HI – Hawaii is preparing for a significant winter storm system expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and potential flash flooding starting Wednesday night and lasting into Thursday. A strong low-pressure system will pass north of Kauai, pushing a cold front across the islands.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued several warnings and advisories, including:
* **High Wind Watch/Warning:** A High Wind Watch is in effect for all Hawaiian Islands from Wednesday evening through Friday morning, with a High Wind Warning already issued for Big Island summits. Damaging south to southwest winds are expected, with gusts potentially exceeding 50 mph, and reaching up to 75 mph on the Big Island summits.
* **Winter Storm Watch:** A Winter Storm Watch is in effect for Big Island summits from late Wednesday night through Friday morning, with potential for heavy snowfall.
* **Gale Watch:** A Gale Watch is in effect for Kauai waters from Wednesday evening through Thursday afternoon.
* **Flash Flood Watch:** The potential for locally heavy rainfall increases the risk of flash flooding across the state, particularly on Thursday.
Residents are urged to prepare for power outages, hazardous driving conditions, and coastal flooding. The NWS advises monitoring weather forecasts closely and taking necessary precautions. The storm is expected to clear by Friday, bringing improved conditions over the weekend.
First Piper 