HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Hawaiian-named Tropical Storm Hone is gradually strengthening while less than a thousand miles east of the state. Additional strengthening is expected, but with the track south of the islands, at this time most impacts may be for the eastern and southeastern portions of Hawaii Island.
According to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center, the following impacts are expected:
WIND: Tropical storm conditions are possible in the watch area later Saturday into Sunday. Winds are expected to be strongest where they blow downslope from higher terrain, over headlands, and through passes.
RAINFALL: Hone is expected to produce storm total rainfall of 4 to 8 inches over mainly windward and southeast facing slopes of the Big Island, with locally higher amounts. Rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches will be possible over portions of the smaller islands, mainly windward.
SURF: Swells generated by Tropical Storm Hone are expected to begin reaching the Hawaiian Islands over the weekend. These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip currents.
