Tropical Storm Hone Threatens Hawaii's Big Island, Hurricane Gilma Remains Major Storm at Sea

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A new tropical storm has formed in the central Pacific Ocean with a forecast path that may come close to Hawaii's Big Island. Meanwhile, Hurricane Gilma, a major hurricane, continues to thrive at sea.

Tropical Storm Hone's Formation

Tropical Storm Hone was first identified on Thursday, with its maximum sustained winds of 40 mph. It was located around 1,090 miles east-southeast of Honolulu and 885 miles east-southeast of Hilo, Hawaii, as reported by the Central Pacific Hurricane Center in an advisory at 5 p.m. EDT Thursday. The storm is currently moving west-northwest at a pace of 14 mph.

According to forecasters, there's a possibility that the center of Tropical Storm Hone could pass near or south of the Big Island over the weekend. The storm is expected to strengthen in the coming days, potentially bringing up to 8 inches of rain to Hawaii's Big Island between Saturday and Monday. Additionally, the windward areas of the smaller islands may face up to 4 inches of rain, as per the hurricane center's predictions. The NOAA also warned of life-threatening surf and rip currents generated by the storm's swells.

Central Pacific Hurricane Season

The central Pacific hurricane season spans from June 1 to November 30. This year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicted one to four tropical cyclones for the central Pacific region, which is below the average of four to five. A tropical cyclone may include tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes. Specifically, a tropical storm is classified when its maximum sustained winds reach 39 mph, while a cyclone becomes a hurricane at 74 mph.

Hurricane Gilma's Status

On the other hand, Hurricane Gilma in the eastern Pacific remains a major hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 125 mph, categorizing it as a Category 3 storm. Gilma is located approximately 1,980 miles east of Hilo, moving west-northwest at 7 mph. Although it's predicted to maintain its powerful hurricane status for the next couple of days, forecasters suggest it may start to weaken over the weekend, with no coastal watches or warnings in effect.

Impact and Preparations

As Tropical Storm Hone approaches, Hawaii is bracing for its potential impact. The forecasted rainfall, waves, and rip currents prompt the need for preparations and caution to ensure the safety of residents and visitors in the affected areas. Authorities and local communities are closely monitoring the storm's developments, and residents are advised to stay informed about the latest updates and recommendations from meteorological agencies.

As the central Pacific hurricane season continues, the formation of Tropical Storm Hone and the persistence of Hurricane Gilma serve as a reminder of the unpredictability and potential dangers of tropical storms and hurricanes in the region. Preparedness and vigilance remain crucial during this time, as communities in Hawaii and beyond remain on alert for the effects of these weather systems.