HILDA GRADUALLY WEAKENING AND DRAWING CLOSER TO HAWAII

TROPICAL STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT

Situation overview

Hurricane Hilda is expected to continue moving toward the northwest near 7 miles per hour through Thursday. The latest Central Pacific Hurricane Center forecast estimates the center of Hilda will pass over the Big Island on Thursday. Steady weakening is expected through Thursday morning with Hilda forecast to weaken to a tropical storm by tonight.

Uncertainty remains for the track and intensity of Hilda so maintaining vigilance and monitor the latest forecasts is prudent through the next several days.

Probability of tropical storm/hurricane conditions

The chance for tropical storm conditions at this time ranges from 16 to 29 percent.

Winds

Although changes are still possible, the latest forecast is for tropical storm force winds of 39 mph or higher for portions of the area from Thursday morning to early Thursday afternoon. Depending on the exact track of Hilda, there is the possibility of minor wind damage.

Storm surge and storm tide

A high surf warning is in effect for east facing shores of the Big Island until 6 am HST Wednesday. See the latest coastal hazard message, WMO header whhw40 PHFO or AWIPS header of hfocfwhfo, for details.

These dangerous conditions mean that only highly experienced persons should enter the water. Inexperienced persons should remain off beaches and adjacent beachfront areas. Large breaking surf, significant shorebreak, and dangerous currents make entering the water very hazardous. Anyone entering the water could face significant injury or death.

A high surf warning means waves of at least 15 feet are expected for the warning area.

Inland flooding

Hilda is expected to produce total rainfall accumulations of 6 to 12 inches. Over the Big Island with isolated maximum amounts of 18 inches possible. Very heavy rain is expect to arrive with Hilda on Thursday and continue through Friday.

These rains could cause life-threatening flash floods and mudslides.

Precautionary/preparedness actions

It is vital that you do not focus on the exact forecast track. Forecast movement, direction, and speed are only estimates. Even small errors in the forecast track can mean major differences in where the worst conditions will occur. Damaging effects can extend far from the center.

For those under a watch, now is the time to prepare. Secure or bring indoors any loose outdoor objects like lawn furniture, children’s toys, hanging plants, barbecue grills, or any item that could become a destructive projectile in strong winds. Do not wait until it is too late.

Stay calm and keep informed. Closely monitor NOAA weather radio or other local news outlets for official storm information. Listen for warnings or changes to the forecast.

Be ready to evacuate if necessary. Heed the advice of local officials and comply with any orders that are issued. Persons living near the shore should be prepared to evacuate quickly should building surf threaten.

Loose objects such as lawn furniture, garbage cans, and other items should be secured or stored indoors. Have supplies on hand and be ready for power outages. Evacuate if ordered by local officials.