Hurricane Nolo Threatens Hawaii With ‘Catastrophic’ Flooding as Parks and Trails Close

Hurricane Nolo is moving closer to Hawaii, and the Big Island could see some of the storm’s worst flooding. Parks, hiking trails, and other public lands have already closed on several islands.

Nolo officially became a hurricane on September 24. The National Hurricane Center says the storm is expected to strengthen as it moves near Hawaii, while heavy rain continues across the Big Island and Maui.

Hawaii is now under a Tropical Storm Warning and Hurricane Watch. Forecasters say another 10 to 15 inches of rain could fall in some areas, with even higher amounts possible.

Flooding, mudslides, high surf and strong winds are all concerns heading into the weekend on several islands.

Parks and Trails Are Closed

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The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) closed all state parks, campgrounds, forest reserves, and Nā Ala Hele hiking trails on Hawaiʻi Island beginning September 24.

Wildlife sanctuaries, natural area reserves, hunting areas, and game management areas are closed too.

The closures expanded to Maui and Molokai on September 25. DLNR has also stopped issuing state forest and state park camping permits for now. Anyone who misses a camping night because of the closures will get a refund.

The department says parks and other lands will reopen after crews can check them for damage.

Flooding Could Be Catastrophic

The National Weather Service says another 10 to 15 inches could fall across parts of the Big Island, with higher amounts locally.

Forecasters are warning that the flooding could become devastating to catastrophic. Rivers and streams could overflow, roads and bridges could close, and mudslides are possible in mountain areas.

Maui is also expected to get heavy rain. The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency has been asking residents and visitors on both islands to keep checking local alerts as the storm moves closer.

Strong Winds and High Surf Are Another Concern

A Hurricane Watch remains in effect for the Big Island, along with a Tropical Storm Warning.  The National Weather Service says tropical storm-force winds are possible, with stronger winds still a concern depending on Nolo’s track.

High surf is already affecting parts of Hawaii. DLNR is asking people to stay away from closed forest and coastal areas because of rising streams, falling trees, flooding, storm surge and dangerous surf.

Anyone in Hawaii can check the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency’s Nolo page for the latest forecast, emergency alerts, and shelter information.

Officials are also reminding visitors not to enter closed areas. Some of those spots may stay closed after the storm until crews can make sure they are safe.