Today, the National Weather Service issued a Tornado Warning for Niʻihau, a small privately owned island, in effect until 7 a.m. HST. Radar detected a rotating thunderstorm about 36 miles southwest of Barking Sands moving northeast toward the island. Officials warned that flying debris could be hazardous to anyone outdoors. Kauaʻi County advised people in the potential path to go indoors, stay away from windows, and remain sheltered until the warning ended.
What The National Weather Service Reported
The NWS issued a warning at 6:38 a.m. HST after radar detected a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado about 36 miles southwest of Barking Sands, moving northeast at approximately 15 mph. The warning was set to remain in effect until 7:00 a.m. HST. Forecasters noted that flying debris could be dangerous for anyone without shelter and that roofs, windows, and vehicles could be affected. The NWS also stated that the tornadic thunderstorm was expected to pass over sparsely populated areas of Niʻihau in Kauaʻi County.
County Urges Immediate Shelter
According to KHON2, Kauaʻi County officials advised residents and those nearby to take shelter immediately in a basement or a small room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. They also noted that the warning could be extended or updated if the storm changed. The county’s emergency notifications page provides instructions for signing up for Wireless Emergency Notification System alerts and other local messages, which officials said are the fastest way to receive official warnings. People without solid shelter were advised to go to the nearest substantial building and protect themselves from flying debris.
Where This Fits In The Weekend Weather Pattern
The tornado warning came while Kauaʻi and Niʻihau were already under a flood watch and high-wind advisories due to slow-moving bands of heavy showers over the western islands. Kauaʻi Now reported that the flood watch had been extended into Friday morning because saturated ground and lingering storms increased the risk of flash flooding. Forecasters were monitoring radar and coastal waters closely, as these slow-moving storms can sometimes produce short-lived rotating cells or waterspouts offshore.
How Uncommon Are Tornado Warnings In Hawaii?
Tornado warnings are uncommon in Hawaii, although rotating storms and waterspouts can occur during strong Kona lows or winter storm setups. Weather.com stated that previous warnings for Niʻihau were notable events, and the Honolulu NWS office issues tornado warnings only occasionally. Even when brief, these warnings are treated seriously because sudden high winds and flying debris can pose risks to exposed coastal areas.
Where To Get Real-Time Updates
For real-time updates, the National Weather Service Honolulu page and the Kauaʻi County emergency website provide current information. Residents can sign up for Wireless Emergency Notification System (WENS) alerts on the county site or call the NWS automated weather line at 808-245-6001 for recorded updates. People in areas under a warning are advised to go to a small interior room on the lowest floor, stay away from windows, and remain sheltered until authorities indicate it is safe to leave.
