The National Weather Service tropical storm warning has been upgraded to a tropical storm warning
Warning for the entire Big Island as Tropical Storm Hone – located about 425 miles east-southeast of Hilo at 5 p.m. – is expected to strengthen and move westward over the next few days.

The latest forecast brings the center of Hone south of, or possibly near, the Big Island Saturday night into Sunday morning.

Winds associated with Hone will increase over the Big Island on Saturday and may become locally destructive by nightfall. Tropical storm conditions with sustained winds in excess of 39 mph are expected Saturday night into Sunday, particularly in areas below higher ground, over headlands, and through passes. This includes areas such as the Humuula Saddle, Waimea Saddle, Leeward Kohala, and South Point.

Persistent rain bands on the north side of Hone may bring excessive rainfall and flash flooding to parts of the Big Island beginning Saturday afternoon and through the remainder of the weekend.

Hamakua, Hilo and Kau districts are most at risk for flash flooding. Some severe thunderstorms may persist over parts of the Big Island through Monday, particularly over downwind and uphill areas.

The short-term swell associated with Hone will continue to intensify, bringing high surf and strong rip currents to the east and southeast coasts of the Big Island beginning this evening and continuing through the rest of the weekend.