Hawaii is facing the imminent threat of Hurricane Nolo, poised to deliver intense winds, heavy rainfall, and flash flooding across the islands. Residents are urged to prepare emergency kits as the storm approaches, with particular concern for the Big Island which is still recovering from Hurricane Lala.
Simultaneously, Mexico’s Baja California peninsula is bracing for Hurricane Polo, a powerful storm expected to make landfall soon. Communities like San Juanico are expressing deep concern about their vulnerability and preparedness for the severe weather conditions.
Hawaii is bracing for the impact of Hurricane Nolo, which is expected to bring heavy rain and powerful winds, potentially causing flash floods and extreme surf across the islands this weekend. This comes as many areas are still recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Lala.
Nolo, with maximum sustained winds of 105 mph (165 kph), was churning slowly south of the Big Island on Saturday. Forecasters warn that the storm could intensify into a catastrophic event over the weekend. The Big Island is particularly vulnerable, with projections of up to 20 inches (51 centimeters) of rainfall, increasing the risk of flooding and mudslides. Other Hawaiian islands are also expected to experience significant rainfall.
"Don't venture out if you don't have to into the dangerous flooding environment, but also high winds. We can have trees and power lines down," advised Michael Brennan, director of the National Hurricane Center. In anticipation of the storm, the humanitarian group CORE has been distributing essential supplies like camp stoves and hygiene products to the Big Island, supporting a relief hub active since Hurricane Lala.
Residents are still reeling from Hurricane Lala, which caused around 100 homes to be swept off their foundations on the Big Island due to strong winds and heavy rain.
Hawaii Prepares for Hurricane Nolo's Northern Edge
President Donald Trump has approved an emergency declaration for Hawaii, enabling FEMA to coordinate federal resources and provide funding for emergency measures. State officials have urged residents to prepare emergency kits, and the governor has activated hundreds of Hawaii National Guard members.
On the Big Island, authorities are advising residents in flood-prone zones to consider relocating to designated shelters. Hawaiian Electric, the state's main utility provider, has redeployed crews to Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island to prepare for potential power outages.
Hurricane Polo Strengthens, Targets Mexico's Baja California
Meanwhile, Mexico is under the threat of Hurricane Polo, which is heading towards the Baja California peninsula after bringing storm conditions to the southwestern coast. Polo, boasting maximum sustained winds of 155 mph (249 kph) on Saturday, is expected to gradually weaken before making landfall on Monday.
The small fishing community of San Juanico on Baja's Pacific coast, already struggling with access to basic necessities, is particularly concerned. "Our people are concerned about this event. We haven't faced such a worrying situation in many years," said Gloriely Robles Meza, a local hotel manager. The town, which has only recently gained full-time electricity and still faces frequent outages, relies on stored fuel and often runs out during high demand. Residents feel unprepared and unsupported by authorities, compelled to protect their homes and belongings independently.
The community hopes for the prepositioning of heavy machinery for road clearing and emergency generators, but for now, their only plan is to convert the local elementary school into a shelter. Concerns are high regarding potential isolation and the ability to receive aid if roads are cut off, affecting access to food supplies and the nearest medical facility located 80 minutes away in Ciudad Constitución.
Jeffrey Westman, a long-time resident and property owner in San Juanico, noted that recent storms have felt significantly more intense and frightening. While hoping Polo will weaken before reaching the coast, he worries about the community's resilience and ability to access essential services if roads become impassable.
