Hawaii is bracing for heavy rain, dangerous surf and potentially damaging winds as Hurricane Lowell approaches the western islands, with the National Weather Service warning that conditions could deteriorate across the state through Tuesday. ([weather.gov](https://www.weather.gov/hfo/ZFP?utm_source=openai))
A hurricane warning is in force for Kauai and Niihau, while a tropical storm warning has been issued for Oahu after the storm’s forecast track shifted eastwards. The eye of Lowell is expected to pass west of Kauai on Monday night. ([forecast.weather.gov](https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?format=TXT&glossary=0&issuedby=HFO&product=HLS&site=CSC&version=1&utm_source=openai))
At 5am local time on Monday, Lowell had maximum sustained winds of about 115mph and was moving north-north-east at 14mph, roughly 370 miles south-west of Lihue. Forecasters said the closest approach could bring the eye to within about 50 miles of Niihau. ([forecast.weather.gov](https://forecast.weather.gov/product.php?format=TXT&glossary=0&issuedby=HFO&product=HLS&site=CSC&version=1&utm_source=openai))
The National Weather Service said hurricane-force winds were possible on Kauai and Niihau, with tropical-storm conditions expected to reach the islands later on Monday. Strong winds are expected to affect the western end of the state most severely, although heavy rain and high surf could affect all the main islands. ([weather.gov](https://www.weather.gov/hfo/AfD?utm_source=openai))
A flood watch is in effect through Tuesday afternoon as showers and thunderstorms develop. Officials are also warning of possible flash flooding, mudslides, life-threatening surf and rip currents, as well as isolated tornadoes and waterspouts. ([weather.gov](https://www.weather.gov/hfo/ZFP?utm_source=openai))
The National Hurricane Center said Lowell was expected to accelerate northwards while gradually weakening, but warned that it would remain a major hurricane as it passed close to Hawaii. Residents have been urged to monitor updates from local weather authorities as the storm moves nearer. ([nhc.noaa.gov](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/2026/ep12/ep122026.discus.046.shtml?utm_source=openai))
