Tropical Storm Nolo Approached Hawaii
The storm is expected to intensify into a hurricane by Thursday evening, prompting widespread state closures.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Forecasts
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Tropical Storm Nolo is projected to become a hurricane on Thursday evening as it approaches Hawaiʻi Island and Maui. The system threatens to bring up to 30 inches of rain to the state, creating significant risks for flash flooding.
Why it matters
The state faces heightened vulnerability because resources remain strained from the aftermath of previous hurricanes Lala and Lowell. Authorities have moved to close schools and public offices to prioritize resident safety ahead of the severe weather.
Tropical Storm Nolo is forecasted to deliver up to 30 inches of rainfall as it nears the islands. Utility crews are restricted from using bucket trucks when wind speeds exceed 30 mph, delaying potential storm recovery efforts.
The players
Josh Green
He is the current Governor of Hawaii who has ordered the closure of public facilities in response to the storm.
National Weather Service
This federal agency is responsible for providing meteorological data and storm intensity projections for the region.
Hawaiian Electric Company
This is the primary utility provider tasked with power restoration and managing repair crews across the impacted islands.
The details
Governor Josh Green has ordered the closure of University of Hawaiʻi campuses and public schools, while state and county offices on Hawaiʻi Island and Maui are shuttered. Hawaiian Electric Company repair crews have returned to home islands, though supplemental teams from Oʻahu and Maui remain on standby to assist with the anticipated damage.
Timeline
Tropical Storm Nolo is expected to become a hurricane on Thursday evening.
The official report regarding the storm state was issued on September 24, 2026.
Seasonal Patterns
This storm arrives as Hawaii continues to manage the long-term resource strain caused by the impact of previous hurricanes Lala and Lowell. The current infrastructure response reflects a prioritized strategy to mitigate damage in a state where recovery capacity is already stretched.
Residents should adhere to all closure orders for schools and state facilities to keep roadways clear for emergency vehicles. Because repair crews cannot operate bucket trucks in winds over 30 mph, households should prepare for the potential of extended power outages following the storm.
The takeaway
The intensity of this storm requires residents to prioritize safety over normal daily routines as utility crews face significant operational restrictions. Individuals should secure property against heavy rainfall and prepare for potential service disruptions during the hurricane's passage.
Further reading
For more information on current atmospheric conditions, visit the Hawaii Forecasts page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Hawai'i Public Radio.
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