Hurricane Watch Issued for Big Island East
The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a Hurricane Watch for the Big Island East area, including Hilo, Pahoa, and Volcano, starting September 25, 2026.
According to the National Weather Service, the watch affects locations such as Hilo, Pahoa, and Volcano. The latest local forecast calls for below tropical storm force winds, with a peak wind forecast of 20 to 30 mph and gusts reaching up to 40 mph. However, due to uncertainty in track, size, and intensity, there is a potential for winds ranging from 58 to 73 mph.
Potential impacts include significant damage such as harm to roofing and siding materials, porches, awnings, carports, and sheds, as well as potential window, door, and garage door failures. Unanchored mobile homes may sustain damage, and unsecured lightweight objects could become dangerous projectiles. Several large trees may be snapped or uprooted, and fences and roadway signs could be blown over.
Transportation and infrastructure may also be affected, with some roads becoming impassable from large debris, particularly in urban or heavily wooded places, along with a few impassable bridges, causeways, and access routes. Scattered power and communications outages are expected, with higher prevalence in areas containing above-ground lines. Additionally, localized storm surge is possible, with a potential inundation of 1 to 3 feet.
Remaining efforts to protect life and property should be completed as soon as possible, and residents are advised to plan for dangerous wind of equivalent strong tropical storm force.