Strong thunderstorms had Hawaiʻi Island waking up on edge Monday, as a Special Weather Statement flagged a rough start to the workweek with the most intense activity expected through 10:30 a.m. HST. Officials warned that the storms could bring strong gusts, heavy rain, and lightning that may make travel hazardous, urging residents and visitors on the Big Island to take precautions as storm cells pushed inland through the morning hours.
The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency doubled down on the alert in a social post, noting that "Strong thunderstorms will impact Hawaiʻi Island through 10:30 am HST" and cautioning that wind gusts up to 50 mph were possible, according to Hawaii Emergency Management Agency. The agency also reminded the public that its social accounts are monitored 24/7 and that people should call 9-1-1 for emergencies.
Strong thunderstorms will impact Hawaiʻi Island through 10:30 am HST. Wind gusts up to 50 mph are possible.
— Hawaii EMA (@hawaii_ema) March 23, 2026
What Officials Are Watching
Forecasters at the National Weather Service in Honolulu have been tracking a broader kona low that has kept the islands under elevated wind and rain threats this month. The agency says the system is capable of producing damaging gusts and strong thunderstorms across leeward and lower-elevation areas, according to National Weather Service Honolulu.
What It Means for the Big Island
Stronger storm cells can deliver sudden bursts of wind, frequent lightning and heavy downpours that cut visibility and may trigger localized flooding. Area forecasts and alert maps show gusts in the neighborhood of 50 mph across some lower elevations and mountain slopes, and coastal waters may turn hazardous for small boats, according to The Weather Channel.
How Officials Say to Stay Safe
Hawaii EMA has urged residents to secure loose outdoor items, steer clear of standing water on roads and avoid any downed power lines. The agency reiterated that its social accounts are staffed around the clock and that people should call 9-1-1 for immediate emergencies, per Hawaii Emergency Management Agency.
Where to Get Ongoing Updates
For the latest watches, radar snapshots and marine advisories, officials are directing people to follow National Weather Service Honolulu updates and NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts. The NWS HFO site is updating products through the morning, and local authorities continue to send out alerts on social channels; see National Weather Service Honolulu for live updates.
