US: Lane weakens to tropical storm near Hawaii August 24 /update 9

Event

Hurricane Lane was downgraded to a tropical storm by the Central Pacific Hurricane Center at approximately 17:00 (local time) on Friday, August 24, as it moved south of Oahu. According to forecasts released at 17:00, Lane is about 240 km (150 mi) south southwest of Honolulu with maximum sustained winds near 110 km/h (70 mph) and moving at a speed of 6 km/h (3 mph). Hurricane warnings issued for Oahu, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and Kahoolawe have been downgraded to tropical storm warnings. While Lane is now a tropical storm, officials have warned that hazardous conditions will still effect Oahu, Maui county, and the Big Island through Saturday, August 25. The storm is expected to produce total rain accumulations of 25-50 cm (10-20 in) and up to 100 cm (40 in) in some areas. Significant flooding and landslides are possible in the coming days as Lane continues to move northwest.

According to the Hawaii Department of Transportation, all Friday flights have been canceled at Maui's Lanai Airport (LNY). In addition, United Airlines, Ohana, and Mokulele Airlines have canceled all flights at Kahului Airport (OGG). Further travel disruptions including flight delays and cancelations are expected over the coming days.

Context

Hurricanes and tropical cyclones are common in the eastern and central Pacific from May through November.

Advice

Individuals in Hawaii are advised to keep abreast of weather alerts, adhere to any advice issued by local authorities, confirm flight reservations, anticipate transportation disruptions and power outages, and refrain from beach or ocean activities; hurricanes can produce dangerous waves and deadly rip currents even at large distances from the storm. In the event of flooding, remember that driving and walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.