Hawaii braces for heavy rain and floods as Hurricane Lowell approaches islands

Hurricane Lowell, a major Category 3 storm, is bearing down on Hawaii's islands of Kauai and Niihau with dangerous rains and flooding in its path. Hawaii Officials warn residents and visitors to prepare now for 6-10 inches of rainfall expected late Monday, with some areas on the Big Island facing up to 12 inches. The downpours could trigger significant flash flooding and mudslides across the islands.
The National Hurricane Center has issued a tropical storm warning and hurricane watch as Lowell travels north and passes west of the islands. Kauai Emergency Management is urging people to fill gas tanks, charge devices, and stock up on water and food before the storm arrives. Meanwhile, Hurricane Marie is creating dangerous surf conditions along Mexico's Baja California coast.
Kauai and Niihau face the worst of Lowell's impact as the hurricane passes to the west late Monday. The Big Island will see 4-8 inches of rain, but some pockets could receive as much as 12 inches, according to Weather Reports. This heavy rainfall poses serious risks. Flash flooding could develop quickly in low-lying areas and near streams. Mudslides may hit hillsides and steep terrain across both islands.
The timing matters. Lowell's passage late Monday means the worst weather will likely hit during evening hours. Residents need to move to higher ground before nightfall. Evacuations may be ordered in flood-prone zones. Power outages are also likely given the storm's strength and heavy rain.
Time is running short. Kauai Emergency Management has laid out clear steps for survival: fill your gas tank immediately, charge all phones and devices, and gather at least one week's worth of water and food. Stock up on medications, batteries, first-aid kits, and flashlights. Board up windows if possible. Have a plan to evacuate if authorities order it.
Visitors to Hawaii should also take these warnings seriously. Hotels and resorts are bracing for closures or significant disruptions. Book flights out if you can. If you stay, follow all official instructions from local emergency managers. Do not attempt to drive during the heaviest rainfall—road conditions will be treacherous and rescue operations difficult.
While Lowell threatens Hawaii's interior, Hurricane Marie is creating another hazard along the coast. Weather Services report that Marie is generating dangerous surf conditions off Mexico's Baja California and extending north toward Southern California. Rip currents and high waves pose drowning risks for swimmers and surfers. Coastal erosion and beach damage are likely where waves crash hardest.
Beachgoers in Southern California should stay out of the water and stay away from cliff edges. Even strong swimmers cannot fight powerful rip currents. The dangerous conditions could persist for several days as Marie's effects ripple northward along the Pacific coast.
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