Hurricane Nolo Approaches Hawaii, Hurricane Polo Threatens Mexico

HILO, Hawaii (AP) — Residents on Hawaii's Big Island were preparing for potential flooding from Hurricane Nolo, while Mexico faced threats from Hurricane Polo as it moved toward the Baja Peninsula. Nolo's maximum sustained winds have increased to 105 mph (165 kph), categorizing it as a Category 2 hurricane. The storm's center was located approximately 185 miles (300 kilometers) south of South Point, Hawaii, and about 380 miles (610 kilometers) south-southeast of Honolulu, moving north-northeast at about 5 mph (7 kph). The U.S. National Hurricane Center indicated that tropical storm conditions were expected to begin on land in the evening, with hurricane conditions possible by early Saturday. Nolo is anticipated to take a turn west on Saturday, likely avoiding a direct hit on the islands. Forecasters warned that eastern and southern areas of the Big Island could experience rainfall totals of 10 to 15 inches (25 to 38 centimeters), with a maximum of 25 inches (64 centimeters) expected. This is a reduction from an earlier forecast of 15 to 30 inches (38 to 76 centimeters), with a maximum of 35 inches (89 centimeters). Wind gusts on land could reach 50 mph (80 kph). Michael Brennan, director of the National Hurricane Center, advised residents to shelter in place by later Friday and to avoid venturing out into potentially dangerous conditions. Heavy rainfall is also expected on other Hawaiian islands, including Maui, where flooding and mudslides are possible. Crews on the Big Island have been working to build berms to manage water flow and debris ahead of the storm. The humanitarian nonprofit CORE has been assisting with the distribution of supplies for community relief. Hawaii officials have urged residents to prepare emergency kits, and the governor has issued an emergency proclamation, activating over 230 Hawaii National Guard members. Schools have been closed, and officials are encouraging residents in flood-prone areas to seek refuge in shelters. Mayor Kimo Alameda emphasized the importance of completing preparations and staying informed about weather updates. The heaviest rain is expected to affect areas of the Big Island that were previously impacted by Hurricane Lala in August. The storm surge could reach 1 to 3 feet (30 to 91 centimeters), leading to large waves and coastal flooding. Hawaiian Electric stated that crews previously engaged in power restoration efforts in Kauai would be returning to Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island in anticipation of the storm. Meanwhile, Hurricane Polo has intensified, with sustained winds estimated at 180 mph (290 kph) as it approaches the Baja California Peninsula. No significant damage was reported along the Mexican coast as of Friday morning, but residents have been evacuating and preparing for the storm. In Lázaro Cárdenas, seawater has caused damage to homes, and local officials are clearing debris. Alicia Contreras reported severe damage to her restaurant due to high waves. Brennan noted that moisture from Polo may lead to scattered flash flooding in parts of the southwestern U.S. by Monday. El Niño is influencing weather patterns globally, contributing to drought in some areas and flooding in others. A third storm, Hurricane Odalys, is currently a Category 4 hurricane but remains far from land. Two additional storms are active in the Atlantic, including Tropical Storm Fay and Tropical Storm Gonzalo, which is strengthening near the Cabo Verde Islands.