Hawaii prepares for its first hurricane in 22 years

Pacific Hurricane Iselle is due to strike the Big Island of the Hawaii island chain sometime today.

Forecasters initially thought that Iselle would reduce in intensity to a large tropical storm before it hit the island. However weather officials changed their outlook after Iselle became slightly stronger and was able to maintain its hurricane classification.

The island chain is preparing for strong winds and heavy rainfall. This is the first hurricane strength storm to strike Hawaii in 22 years.

Another Pacific storm further to the east, Hurricane Julio, is strengthening and heading towards the island chain. Julio is expected to approach Hawaii closer to the weekend. Forecasters predict that it might pass to the north of the island chain. However the rainfall from two events in such close proximity could result in widespread flash flooding.

Keep an eye on the NOAA website for updates on the storm risks.

 

Hurricanes Iselle (left) and Juio (right).
Image from NOAA

 

More information:
[1] http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-28693242
[2] http://www.prh.noaa.gov/cphc
[3] http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/index.shtml?epac