Tropical Cyclone Ana advances, Hawaii under watch

While Tropical Cyclone Ana continues to advance towards the Hawaiian Islands, the forecast potential impacts have decreased as the storm has pushed west, dropping the potential track a little further to the south of the Hawaiian Islands. However, the latest advisory from Central Pacific Hurricane Center states that areas under watch could experience tropical storm conditions within 36-48 hours.  A watch is currently in effect for the Big Island and Maui County Leeward waters.

According to the latest CPHC discussion, Ana is expected to increase in strength overnight, but may not reach hurricane strength as previously expected. Residents should remain prepared for tropical storm winds, rainfall, and surf. It is also important to recognize that forecast conditions do change over time.

While the actual track remains to some degree uncertain. A flash flood watch is also in effect for the Big Island from noon Friday, October 17 (local time) until 6pm Sunday and large ocean swells produced by Ana are expected to begin tonight through tomorrow morning, and remain potentially damaging throughout the weekend.

For more information:
• Visit the CPHC site.