Hawaii Recorded Extreme September 2026 Weather
The state experienced its wettest and warmest September on record due to tropical storms and El Niño patterns.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Severe Weather
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Hawaii saw record-breaking rainfall and temperatures in September 2026 as hurricanes and climate conditions shifted the environment. Nearly the entire state faced warmer and wetter weather compared to typical seasonal norms.
Why it matters
The confluence of El Niño conditions and active hurricane activity has driven simultaneous heat and precipitation extremes. This weather pattern highlights the significant impact of elevated sea surface temperatures in the Central Pacific.
Kauaʻi's North Shore received 17 inches of rain during Hurricane Lowell, while Mount Waiʻaleʻale saw 36 inches over three days. Hawaiʻi Island temperatures trended 2.6°F above normal for the month.
The players
Hurricane Lowell
This tropical storm brought significant rainfall and severe weather impacts to the Hawaiian archipelago.
Hurricane Nolo
This weather system contributed to the record-breaking precipitation levels observed across the state in September.
The details
Hurricane Lowell and Hurricane Nolo brought intense precipitation, with Kauaʻi recording its wettest September ever. Concurrently, elevated sea surface heat from El Niño fueled these storms while preventing typical cooling, resulting in the warmest September on record for Hawaiʻi Island.
Timeline
September 2026: Hawaii experienced record rainfall and heat.
Early September 2026: Hurricane Lowell impacted the region.
Nov. 30, 2026: The current hurricane season is scheduled to end.
Seasonal Patterns
The record precipitation levels documented in September follow the historical patterns monitored by the National Weather Service's Central Pacific Hurricane Center protocols during active El Niño cycles. This reflects a period where elevated sea temperatures significantly influence storm behavior.
Residents should continue to monitor weather alerts as the hurricane season remains active through late November. Ensure emergency supply kits are updated and stay informed through official climate summaries regarding potential residual storm impacts.
The takeaway
September 2026 serves as a stark reminder of how El Niño can exacerbate tropical weather risks in the Pacific. Residents are encouraged to maintain vigilance against both heat-related stress and storm-driven flooding through the end of November.
What happens next
The current hurricane season is scheduled to conclude on Nov. 30, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on ongoing climate trends, visit the Severe Weather section.
More information
View the HCDP latest climate summary for detailed meteorological data.
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