Urgent: Hurricane Nolo Threatens Maui With Major Flooding

Image Source: Honolulu Star-Advertiser

Hurricane Nolo is strengthening south of Hawaii, prompting Maui County officials to urge residents and visitors to prepare for heavy rain, flash flooding and possible disruptions through the weekend.

A flood watch covering Maui, Molokai, Lanai and Kahoolawe took effect Wednesday and is expected to remain in place through Saturday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service. Forecasters warned that rainfall could overwhelm streams, drainage systems and low-lying roads, particularly if the storm shifts from its current projected path.

Hurricane Nolo Brings Critical Flooding Threat to Maui

As of 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nolo had maximum sustained winds of 40 mph. The slow-moving system was located approximately 310 miles south of South Point on Hawaii island and about 500 miles south-southeast of Honolulu. It was moving west-northwest at 6 mph.

The storm’s exact track remained uncertain. However, forecasters expected Nolo to turn north and strengthen into a hurricane before turning west Friday night and passing south of Hawaii Island.

A hurricane watch was issued for the Big Island, where heavy rain was expected to begin Wednesday and spread toward Maui. Windward Maui was identified as one of the areas most likely to receive significant rainfall. The National Weather Service forecast between 8 and 15 inches of rain for East Maui, with locally higher amounts possible.

Heavy Rain, Flash Flooding and Landslides Possible

The flood watch means conditions could develop that produce flash flooding from excessive rainfall. Streams and drainage channels may overflow, while runoff could affect urban neighborhoods, low-lying areas and private property.

• Road closures may occur as water rises or debris blocks routes.
• Steep terrain could experience landslides and falling rocks.
• Wind and surf impacts may increase later in the week.
• Power outages, water interruptions and internet disruptions are possible.

Although wind and surf conditions were expected to worsen later in the week, officials said heavy rainfall and flash flooding were the main immediate concerns for Maui County. Residents were reminded that even a modest change in Nolo’s direction could expand the danger to areas outside the current forecast zone.

Officials Urge Residents to Prepare Now

Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen said emergency teams were monitoring the storm and coordinating preparations with state agencies, nonprofit organizations and private partners.

“While it is still too early to know exactly what conditions we may see, now is the time for residents and visitors to take simple steps to be prepared,” Bissen said.

He encouraged people to monitor official updates, secure loose outdoor objects, gather food and water, refill needed prescriptions and identify where they would go if an evacuation order were issued.

Maui Emergency Management Agency Administrator Amos Lonokailua-Hewett emphasized that the storm could create problems lasting beyond the initial rainfall.

“Heavy rainfall and flash flooding are our main concerns at this time — but we need everyone to understand the importance to be prepared and stay updated,” Lonokailua-Hewett said. He also urged households to plan for possible food loss, water interruptions and a loss of internet service.

Powerful Preparation Steps for Maui Households

The county recommends that households maintain at least 14 days of food, water, medications and essential supplies. Residents should also review emergency communication plans and make sure family members know how to reconnect if phone service becomes unreliable.

• Secure outdoor furniture, tools, decorations and other loose items.
• Store important documents in a waterproof container.
• Charge phones, backup batteries and essential medical devices.
• Keep flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies and sanitation items nearby.
• Identify evacuation zones, shelters and alternate travel routes.
• Avoid crossing flooded roads and never drive around barricades.

People living near the coast, streams, drainage channels or steep slopes should pay particular attention to evacuation information. Visitors staying in hotels, vacation rentals or other temporary accommodations should ask property managers about emergency procedures and shelter locations.

Residents can sign up for Maui Emergency Management Agency alerts and Genasys evacuation notifications through the county’s official emergency information services. Officials are urging the public to rely on verified government updates as the forecast develops.

What Happens Next?

Weather conditions are expected to change as Nolo approaches Hawaii. Forecasters will continue assessing the storm’s strength, forward speed and track, while local agencies prepare for the possibility of flooding, road closures and extended outages.

For now, Maui County officials say the best response is early preparation. Residents do not need to wait for an evacuation order to secure their homes, collect essential supplies and discuss a family emergency plan.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hurricane Nolo

What is the current threat from Hurricane Nolo?

The primary concerns are heavy rainfall, flash flooding, landslides, rising surf and possible power outages. The storm’s track could change, increasing risks in additional areas.

Which Maui areas could receive the most rain?

Windward Maui, especially East Maui, is among the areas most likely to receive substantial rainfall. Forecast amounts ranged from 8 to 15 inches in East Maui.

How long is the flood watch expected to last?

The flood watch for Maui, Molokai, Lanai and Kahoolawe is expected to remain active through Saturday afternoon, although officials may update the timing as conditions evolve.

How much emergency food and water should households keep?

Maui County recommends maintaining at least 14 days of food, water, medications and other essential supplies for each household.