Tropical Storm Nolo triggers hurricane watch for Hawaii

Tropical Storm Nolo has formed in the Pacific Ocean, prompting the National Hurricane Center to issue a hurricane watch for Hawaii's Big Island. The storm, which currently has maximum sustained winds of 40 mph, is projected to intensify into a hurricane by Thursday and could reach major hurricane status by the weekend.

Forecasters expect the storm to turn north-northeast and approach the Big Island on Friday or Saturday. The system is anticipated to bring significant rainfall, with estimates ranging from 15 to 20 inches for the Big Island and up to 35 inches in certain areas. Such heavy precipitation poses a risk of catastrophic, life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly in steep terrain.

Maui is also at risk, with expected rainfall between 5 and 10 inches, potentially reaching 20 inches in some locations. Other Hawaiian islands may see 1 to 3 inches of rain with isolated flooding. This weather event follows recent storm activity in the region, including Hurricane Lowell and Hurricane La.