Hurricane Lowell takes aim at Hawaii: schools shut, evacuations urged as dangerous winds, flooding and 16 inches of rain threaten Kauai

Hawaii is bracing for a dangerous overnight encounter with Hurricane Lowell, with Kauai and Niihau facing the greatest risk as the storm moves close to the islands.

Lowell was a Category 2 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 110 mph late Monday, according to the National Hurricane Center. Its projected path had shifted east, bringing the storm closer to Kauai County and raising concerns over destructive winds, torrential rain, flash flooding and powerful coastal waves.

The storm was expected to make its closest approach to the western Hawaiian islands between Monday night and early Tuesday, prompting officials to take precautionary measures across the state.

Kauai shuts schools as storm threat grows

Authorities moved quickly to reduce travel and keep people off the roads.

Public schools, state offices and Kauai County offices were ordered closed Tuesday, September 8, as officials warned that conditions could deteriorate rapidly. Essential emergency and public-safety operations will continue despite the closures.

Hawaii Governor Josh Green urged residents to remain indoors, avoid unnecessary journeys and follow instructions from emergency officials.

The closures come as Kauai sits closest to Lowell's forecast path, making the island particularly vulnerable to flooding, strong winds and dangerous surf.

Up to 16 inches of rain could trigger flooding

Rainfall may become one of the biggest threats from Hurricane Lowell.

Forecasters expect Kauai to receive several inches of rain, with some areas potentially seeing totals of around 16 inches. The combination of intense downpours and already saturated or vulnerable terrain could trigger flash flooding and mudslides.

The Big Island could also see significant rainfall, while other Hawaiian islands face the possibility of heavy showers as the storm's broader circulation moves through the region.

Low-lying communities, areas near rivers and residents living below steep slopes are among those facing heightened risks.

Powerful winds and dangerous waves threaten coastal areas

Even though Lowell has weakened from its earlier strength, officials have stressed that the storm remains capable of producing life-threatening conditions.

Kauai County is under a hurricane warning, while Oahu is under a tropical storm warning. The National Hurricane Center warned of high winds, damaging waves and flash flooding across parts of the islands.

Coastal communities are also dealing with a dangerous combination of large waves, strong onshore winds and elevated water levels. Residents and visitors have been urged to stay away from beaches, shorelines and other exposed areas.

Tornadoes add another concern

Hurricane Lowell is also bringing an unusual threat for Hawaii: tornadoes.

Forecasters warned that brief tornadoes could develop, particularly around Kauai and Niihau, as bands of thunderstorms associated with the hurricane move across the islands.

That possibility has added another layer of uncertainty for residents already preparing for flooding and hurricane-force conditions.

Tourists urged to shelter and avoid roads

The storm is affecting visitors as well as local residents.

Officials in Poipu and other parts of Kauai have urged people to stay off roads and shelter in place. Parks, campgrounds and other outdoor facilities have been closed, while travelers have been advised to check directly with airlines for changes to flights.

Kauai's Lihue Airport was also closed as the storm approached, adding to potential travel disruptions across the island.

Emergency officials have advised households to secure loose outdoor objects, charge phones and other devices, stock water and food, refill essential prescriptions and keep emergency supplies ready.

Hawaii prepares for possible power outages

High winds, flooding and falling debris could cause power disruptions, officials warned.

Residents have been encouraged to prepare for the possibility of losing electricity and to keep multiple ways of receiving emergency alerts available.

While Lowell is expected to weaken as it moves past Hawaii, authorities are warning that a weaker hurricane can still produce dangerous rainfall, surf and winds. The immediate focus remains on Kauai, Niihau and Oahu as the storm makes its closest approach.

For now, officials are urging people not to underestimate the storm simply because its category has fallen. The combination of heavy rain, powerful winds, dangerous surf and possible tornadoes could create hazardous conditions across Hawaii through Tuesday.