23 Aug 2024 | 03:41 AM UTC
North Pacific Ocean: Tropical Storm Hone is tracking westward across the North Pacific Ocean toward Hawaii evening Aug. 22
TS Hone tracking westward in North Pacific Ocean toward Hawaii, US, evening Aug. 22. Close approach to Hawaii early Aug. 25-27.
Tropical Storm Hone is tracking westward across the North Pacific Ocean toward Hawaii the evening of Aug. 22. As of 17:00 HST, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 1,310 km (815 miles) east-southeast of Hilo, Hawaii.
Forecast models indicate that the storm will strengthen gradually as it tracks generally westward towards Hawaii through late Aug. 24 before making a close approach to Hawaii early Aug. 25-27, passing south of the islands. Some uncertainty remains in the track and intensity forecast; significant changes could occur in the coming days.
As of the evening of Aug. 22, officials have issued a tropical storm watch for Hawaii County. Tropical storm conditions are possible in the watch area late Aug. 24-25. Winds are likely to be strongest where blowing downslope from higher terrain, over headlands, and through passes. Hone is forecast to produce storm total rainfall of 10-20 cm (4-8 inches), mainly over the windward and southeast-facing slopes of the Big Island. Rainfall totals of 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) will be possible over portions of the smaller islands, mainly windward. Swells generated by the system are expected to begin reaching the Hawaiian Islands Aug. 24, likely causing life-threatening surf and rip currents.
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. Localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible if weather conditions prove hazardous.
The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions, rendering some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at regional airports and temporary closures of ports are also possible. Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding increase insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters pose a serious health threat.
Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast tropical cyclone conditions. Heed any evacuation orders that may be issued. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for severe flooding and storm surge. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers. Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks.
Plan accordingly for protracted commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions in areas in the path of the storm, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.
