On August 25, 2024, a satellite image from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration shows Hurricane Hone moving south of Hawaii. (NOAA)
Hurricane Hone moved past Hawaii on Sunday, August 25, 2024, bringing heavy rain that helped alleviate concerns about wildfires. Although Hone, a Category 1 hurricane with winds reaching 85 mph, was not a direct hit, its rain brought significant relief to the islands.
As Hone approached, it dumped up to a foot of rain on the Big Island, causing major disruptions. Flooding closed Highway 11, which links Kona and Hilo, as well as the higher-altitude Cane Road. The rain caused problems for local businesses like Aikane Plantation Coffee Co. in Pahala, where owner Phil Becker reported that his rain gauge overflowed due to the deluge. Despite being cut off by flooding, Becker noted that the rain could benefit his coffee crops, which have been struggling in the drought.
Hawaii’s emergency response included opening shelters and closing beach parks on the eastern side of the Big Island due to dangerous surf conditions. The Central Pacific Hurricane Center's Jon Jelsema explained that the rain, which he compared to "wringing out a wet towel," was causing significant flooding in the windward sections of the island. This heavy rain came as a relief given the previous threat of wildfires exacerbated by dry conditions and strong winds.
In contrast, Hurricane Gilma, a Category 3 storm at its peak, weakened significantly and posed no immediate threat to the islands. The focus remained on Hurricane Hone’s impact and the potential for flooding and infrastructure damage.
This storm brought back memories of last year's devastating wildfires on Maui, which were fueled by hurricane-force winds. With the islands still in a state of drought or abnormal dryness, the heavy rain from Hone helped reduce the risk of wildfires. Red flag warnings, issued when conditions are ideal for fires, were lifted due to the rain.
Residents like Calvin Endo from Waianae Coast have been worried about fire risks due to dry brush and overgrown vegetation. Endo, who has taken personal steps to clear brush around his home, expressed relief that Hone’s rain could prevent another disaster like the deadly Lahaina fire, which killed over 100 people in August 2023.
Authorities prepared for potential power outages to prevent fires from damaging power lines. Hawaiian Electric and Kauai Island Utility Cooperative had plans to cut power if needed but ultimately did not have to implement these measures as Hone passed by without further issues.
The small fire that started in Waikoloa before the storm was quickly controlled without any reported injuries or damage.
