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NewsWSVN 7 News MiamiSeptember 6, 2026Miami-Dade

Hawaii Governor declares state of emergency as Hurricane Lowell approaches

Governor Josh Green has declared a state of emergency for Hawaii to mobilize state resources and National Guard units as Hurricane Lowell tracks toward the western islands. The storm is expected to bring heavy rain, flash flooding, and tropical storm-force winds to Kauai and Niihau starting Monday night.

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Why It Matters

Residents across Hawaii face potential flash flooding, mudslides, and hazardous surf conditions, with specific es in effect for Kauai and Niihau.

Key Facts

  • Governor Josh Green declared a state of emergency for Hawaii on Thursday.
  • Hurricane Lowell is a Category 3 storm with 125 mph winds.
  • Tropical storm watches are in effect for Kauai and Niihau.
  • The storm center is expected to pass 130 miles west of Niihau and 170 miles west of Kauai.
  • Six high-water vehicles are being deployed to Kauai.
  • Rainfall totals are forecast at 4-6 inches for Kauai, Niihau, and the Big Island, with up to 10 inches possible.
  • Rainfall totals for Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, and Maui are forecast at 2-4 inches, with up to 8 inches in mountainous areas.
  • High surf advisory is in effect with waves reaching up to 14 feet.
  • The National Hurricane Center warns of significant flash flooding and mudslides.
  • The 2026 central Pacific hurricane season is forecast to have five to 13 cyclones.

Who's Mentioned

other130“Miles west of Niihau for storm path”organizationHawaii National Guard“Activated to assist with storm response”organizationNational Hurricane Center“Provided storm tracking and forecast data”other170“Miles west of Kauai for storm path”other125“Hurricane Lowell wind speed in mph”locationKauai“Island under tropical storm watch”other14“Wave height in feet”personJosh Green“Governor of Hawaii who declared the state of emergency”other10“Maximum rainfall in inches”locationNiihau“Island under tropical storm watch”other39“Wind speed threshold for tropical storm conditions in mph”organizationNational Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration“Forecasted the central Pacific hurricane season”