HILO, Hawaii (AP) — Hurricane Nolo skirted the Hawaiian Islands as it gained intensity on Saturday, posing risks for flash floods, dangerous winds, and extreme surf in areas recovering from previous storms. Nolo was located south of the Big Island with maximum sustained winds of 90 mph (150 kph) and was about 165 miles (266 kilometers) south-southwest of Hawaii's southernmost point. It is forecast to strengthen into a major hurricane late Sunday and early Monday while moving westward south of the islands.
A hurricane watch was canceled and direct landfall by the storm's center was not expected. However, forecasters warned that its outer bands could lead to life-threatening flooding and mudslides, with parts of the Big Island anticipating rainfall totals up to 20 inches (51 centimeters). Heavy rain was also expected on other islands.
Michael Brennan, director of the National Hurricane Center, advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel due to the dangerous flooding and high winds, which could result in downed trees and power lines. Heavy rain continued across the southern part of the Big Island, leading to partial closures of a main highway connecting Kailua-Kona and Hilo.
National Guard members were seen assisting residents in Naalehu who were attempting to navigate flooded streets. Over 120 guard members were activated on the island, part of approximately 400 statewide following the governor's emergency proclamation.
The humanitarian nonprofit group CORE and other partners have been preparing supplies for a community relief hub active since August's Hurricane Lala, which caused significant damage, including sweeping about 100 homes off their foundations.
Despite warnings, some residents, like Andrea Gill, continued their routines, with Gill stating that while storms are common, hurricanes are rare. She expressed hope that the islands might avoid severe impacts from Nolo.
President Donald Trump approved an emergency declaration on Friday, allowing the Federal Emergency Management Agency to coordinate assistance and provide funding support. Hawaiian Electric reported that crews previously restoring power in Kauai after Hurricane Lowell returned to Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island in response to Nolo.
On Maui, a brush fire broke out on the west side of the island, prompting mandatory evacuations and highway closures. The fire was near Olowalu, about 7 miles (11 kilometers) south of Lahaina, where deadly fires occurred in 2023. Evacuation centers were established for affected residents.
The National Weather Service issued a high wind warning for parts of Maui, indicating winds could reach at least 40 mph (64 kph) with gusts over 60 mph (97 kph).
Bob Oravec, lead forecaster at the National Weather Service, noted that the Pacific hurricane season has been unusually active, consistent with El Niño years, which typically see increased storm activity.
Meanwhile, Hurricane Polo is threatening Mexico's Baja California Peninsula with maximum sustained winds of 140 mph (220 kph) as it approaches landfall. Residents of San Juanico, a small fishing community in the projected path, expressed concern about the storm's impact, highlighting their limited resources and the need for self-preparation.
Robles Meza, a local hotel manager, noted the community's lack of support from authorities and the need for emergency provisions. The town has faced challenges with power outages and access to basic needs, complicating their storm preparations.
Jeffrey Westman, a long-time resident, expressed hope that Polo would weaken before reaching the peninsula, recalling past storms that lost intensity.
Associated Press writers Christopher Weber, Gabriela Aoun Angueira, and Hannah Schoenbaum contributed to this report.