Forecasters have issued travel warnings across Hawaii as the islands face challenging weather conditions.
The Weather Channel has reported major statewide shutdowns amid “heavy rain and brutal winds.” Governor Josh Green announced Sunday that Department of Education Schools, as well as state offices will be shut on Monday as officials expected “significant” rainfall totals.
In high wind warnings spanning portions of Kauai, Maui, Molokai, Niihau, Oahu, Kahoolawe, Lanai, and the Big Island Hawaii, the National Weather Service forecast office in Honolulu said that winds of 25 to 40 mph, with gusts up to 60 mph are expected.
The agency warned that “damaging winds” could blow down trees, topple power lines, and cause damage to roofs. It also warned that power outages may be possible and that conditions would lead to difficult travel, particularly for high profile vehicles.
“Strong winds may lead to property damage. Hazardous driving conditions due to powerful cross winds will pose a serious risk for drivers, especially for light weight and high profile vehicles. Loose outdoor items should be brought inside or secured properly,” the NWS advised.
“A High Wind Warning means that winds are expected to be at least 40 mph, with gusts over 60 mph. Stay away from downed power lines,” the agency added.
As of reporting, the high wind warnings are in force until 6 p.m. HST Monday evening.
A flood watch is also in effect across all the main Hawaiian islands through 6 p.m. Monday as flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible, according to the NWS.
“Flood prone roads and other low lying areas may be closed due to elevated runoff and overflowing streams,” read the alert. Urban areas may receive more significant flooding and property damage due to rapid runoff.”
Additionally, a high surf warning is in place for the east facing shores of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Maui, Kahoolawe, and the Big Island until Tuesday morning as the NWS warns of “dangerously large breaking waves of 10 to 15 feet.”
“Expect very strong breaking waves and powerful currents. Waves breaking in channel entrances may make navigating the channels dangerous,” it said, advising people in the area to avoid the shoreline along affected coasts, prepare for road closures, and delay entering or leaving channels affected by the high surf until the event subsides.
Newsweek reported Sunday that a winter storm warning had been issued for the Big Island volcanic summits of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, which was set to remain in place into late Monday afternoon.
Between 10 and 16 inches of snow, along with winds up to 45 mph were expected, leading to periods of blowing snow and “zero visibility” at times.
Forecasters warned that travel plans to either summit should be delayed until conditions improved.
Regular forecast updates are issued by the NWS on its website.
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