Hawaii County Civil Defense Advisory

This is a Civil Defense hurricane update for 11:30 a.m. Monday, August 20, 2018

The Central Pacific Hurricane Center reports that as of 11 a.m., Hurricane Lane is a Category 3 hurricane, approximately 580 miles SE of Hilo with sustained winds of 130 mph, moving west at approximately 12 mph.

Due to Hurricane Lane, a high surf advisory up to 10 ft has been issued for areas along east facing shores, from Puna to Ka‘u. A high surf advisory means breaking wave action poses a threat to life and property. Residents along the affected shores should be alert for high and dangerous surf conditions. Boat owners should take measures to secure their vessels.

The following beach park closures are in effect:

• Whittington, Punaluu, and Milolii Beach Parks are closed. All pavilion and camping permits for these three parks have been canceled.

Civil Defense is monitoring the storm and will keep you informed of any changes that may affect your safety. Take this time to assure that family and business emergency plans are up to date. Also, make sure you are signed up for our emergency notification system through Blackboard: https://countyofhawaii.bbcportal.com/

National Weather Service Advisory

At 11 p.m. HST (0900 UTC), the eye of Hurricane Lane was located by aircraft near latitude 14.0 North, longitude 151.2 West. Lane is moving toward the west near 12 mph (19 km/h) and this motion is expected to continue through Tuesday, with some slowing in forward speed. A gradual turn toward the northwest is expected Wednesday into Thursday.

Maximum sustained winds are near 150 mph (240 km/h) with higher gusts. Lane is a category 4 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. Slight weakening is forecast over the next couple of days.

Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 40 miles (65 km) from the center and tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 125 miles (205 km).

The estimated minimum central pressure is 950 mb (28.06 inches).

National Weather Service Discussion

Lane has quite an impressive satellite signature this evening, with a solid ring of very cold cloud tops surrounding a warming eye. Aircraft from NOAA and the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron have been flying through lane at 8 to 10 thousand feet respectively this evening, and are confirming that Lane is a powerful hurricane that has intensified since their last visit this morning. The central pressure has dropped roughly 10 mb, peak SFMR winds were 140 kt with max flight level winds near 128 kt, and an eyewall dropsonde recorded winds near 139 kt. Based on a blend of the aircraft data, the initial intensity for this advisory is increased to 130 kt, maintaining Lane as a powerful category 4 hurricane.

Public should prepare for Tropical Cyclone Lane

HONOLULU — HI-EMA recommends residents and visitors take the following actions to prepare for any possible hurricane or tropical cyclone:

• Prepare an “emergency kit” of a minimum of 14 days of food, water, and other supplies.
• Talk with family members and develop a clear understanding of what you will do if a hurricane or tropical storm threatens. Prepare an action plan that includes details such as whether your family plans to shelter in place or evacuate.
• Know if your home is in an inundation zone, flood zone, or susceptible to high winds and other hazards. Know if your home is retrofitted with hurricane resistant clips or straps.
• Stay tuned to local media and their websites/applications regarding weather updates.
• Sign up for local notification systems (i.e., HNL.Info).
• Get to know your neighbors and community so you can help each other.
• Walk your property and check for potential flood threats. Clear your gutters and other drainage systems. Remove and secure loose items. Keep your car gas tanks filled.
• Prepare your pets by checking or purchasing a carrier and other preparedness items. A pet carrier is necessary for your pet’s safety if you plan to evacuate to a pet-friendly shelter. Don’t forget 14 days of food and water for your furry family members.
• Set aside an emergency supply of any needed medication and keep a copy of your prescriptions in case you run out of medication after a disaster.
• Secure your important documents in protective containers.
• Visitors should download GoHawaii App and read the Hawaii Tourism Authority’s Travel Safety Brochure at http://www.travelsmarthawaii.com.
• Build an emergency kit – now.

NWS Infrared Satellite Image Loop

NWS Infrared Satellite Image Loop