Hurricane Lowell hits Hawaii's western islands, causing widespread power outages

Hurricane Lowell struck Hawaii on Tuesday, delivering damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and powerful floods that left 91 % of a western island without power. The storm’s peak winds reached up to 70 mph, while rainfall totals exceeded 4 inches in several communities, causing widespread road washouts and flash flooding in low‑lying areas.

Emergency officials reported that the power outage affected more than 70,000 residents, prompting the dispatch of utility crews and the deployment of backup generators to critical facilities. Local authorities urged residents to stay indoors and avoid flooded roads, while the state’s emergency management agency activated the hurricane response plan to coordinate relief efforts and monitor the storm’s continued eastward trajectory across the Pacific.

As Lowell moves further into the open ocean, officials continue to monitor its intensity and potential impact on the remaining populated islands. Power restoration is expected to continue over the next 48 hours, with state agencies working to clear debris and repair damaged infrastructure while keeping the public informed through regular updates.