by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 8:30 AM ET, Tue September 8, 2026
Hawai’i is bracing for another hurricane this week, as the Category 2 Hurricane Lowell could bring strong winds and heavy rainfall to some of the islands on Monday and Tuesday.
According to the National Hurricane Center’s most recent report, Hurricane Lowell was located about 110 miles northwest of Lihue, Hawai’i, and had maximum sustained winds of 105 miles per hour. Moving at just 18 miles per hour, the hurricane has issued a hurricane warning for the Hawaiian Islands, including Kauai County and the islands of Kauai and Niihau.
Oahu is also under a tropical storm warning. A hurricane warning is also in effect for the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument from Nihoa to French Frigate Shoals.
The NHC predicts that Hurricane Lowell will move away from Kauai County on Monday, September 8, turning northwest and west, then slow down on Wednesday and Thursday after passing the Hawaiian Islands.
Will Hurricane Lowell Impact Travel?
Still, it’s expected to impact travelers and residents alike. Some airports may experience delays early this week: Lihue Airport reported sustained winds of 53 miles per hour, with a gust of 75 mph, while Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu reported a gust of 43 mph.
According to FlightAware, both airports are experiencing delays and cancellations: Lihue has the most cancellations as of Monday morning, at 25, with five delays reported. Daniel K. Inouye Airport is experiencing 18 cancellations and five delays. This number could rise.
Officials are encouraging people in affected areas to stay safe, remain sheltered in place, and stay up to date on local weather developments. Some Hawaiian cruise itineraries may be shifted at the last minute to keep cruise passengers safe.
What to Expect From Hurricane Lowell
The worst of the hurricane will be felt between Monday night and Tuesday morning, according to ABC News. Schools in the impacted zones have been closed.
Hurricane Lowell is expected to produce four to eight inches of rainfall in Kauai, with a possible maximum total of 24 inches. The Big Island is expected to receive three to eight inches, with a possible maximum of 12 inches. Oahu and Maui County are expected to get two to five inches of rain, with 10 inches possible.
The heavy rain and wind could cause mudslides and flash floods. Tornadoes are also possible near Kauai and Niihau.
Additionally, coastal areas will experience a storm surge. Kauai County is expected to receive a two- to four-foot surge.
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