Hurricane Hone is gradually moving away from the Big Island but is still bringing gusty winds and widespread rain to the region. The storm strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 85 mph as it hovered southwest of Kailua-Kona. It is moving west at 8 mph and will continue in that direction for the next few days. A tropical storm warning remains in effect for Hawaii County, with residents expected to see 6 to 12 inches of rain and life-threatening surf. Flash flood warnings are in effect for most of the island, including Hilo and Waimea. Hilo International Airport has canceled some flights, and Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park has closed its summit and coastal backcountry areas. Social media videos show trees shaking in the wind amid heavy downpour on the Big Island. Over 24,000 utility customers were without power on the island as of Sunday afternoon.
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Hurricane Hone unleashes torrential rain and destructive winds on Hawaii’s Big Island
