Hurricane Hone passed just south of Hawaii on Sunday, bringing heavy rainfall that led the National Weather Service to lift its red flag warnings for potential wildfire risks on the drier parts of the islands.
The storm, which had top winds of 85 mph (140 kph) as it moved slowly past the Big Island, resulted in significant flooding that closed Highway 11 between Kona and Hilo and also affected the higher-altitude Cane Road.
Despite the challenges, Phil Becker of the Aikane Plantation Coffee Co. reported that his plantation, which relies on solar-powered batteries, is safe and potentially benefiting from the rain after a prolonged drought.
In addition to Hone, Tropical Storm Hector formed in the eastern Pacific, packing sustained winds of 45 mph (75 kph), but it posed no immediate threat as it remained far out at sea.
Hurricane Gilma, which had weakened to a Category 3 hurricane, was forecast to dissipate before reaching Hawaii.
Local officials, including Hawaii County Mayor Mitch Roth, had prepared for the storm by opening shelters and closing beach parks on the eastern side of the Big Island due to dangerous surf.
Although Hurricane Hone’s heavy rain has caused road closures and flooding concerns, it has not led to injuries or significant structural damage. The storm’s impacts are a reminder of the recent devastating wildfires on Maui, fueling concerns about wildfire risks in the future.
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