Hawaii Storm 2026: Monster Cyclone Threatens Islands—Live Tracker, Flight Cancellations & Safety Alerts

Hawaii’s latest Kona storm is unleashing torrents of tropical moisture across every island, triggering flash flood warnings, power outages and travel disruptions just as the normally dry spring break season begins. The slow-moving low-pressure system parked west of the archipelago is funneling south-to-north bands of thunderstorms that have already dumped 5-10 inches of rain on windward Oʻahu and Maui, with isolated gauges on Hawaiʻi Island topping 14 inches overnight. Key impacts today: • Flash Flood Warning for Oʻahu, Maui and Hawaiʻi Island through at least Saturday night as additional 6-8 inches of rain is forecast. • Wind gusts of 55-65 mph downing trees and power lines statewide; more than 34,000 customers lost electricity overnight, most on the Big Island. • Snow totals of 12-24 inches possible on Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa summits under a rare Blizzard Warning issued by the National Weather Service. • Gov. Josh Green declared a statewide emergency, activating the National Guard and unlocking disaster funds for flooded communities. Travel & closures: Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport remains open but dozens of inter-island flights are delayed or canceled; travelers should check with airlines before heading out. All public schools on Oʻahu and Maui closed Friday, and several state parks—including ʻĪao Valley and Pololū—are shuttered until damage assessments can be made. Portions of H-1 and H-3 freeways experienced lane closures due to rockslides; county crews are working around the clock to clear debris. Forecast outlook: Meteorologists expect the Kona storm to drift east Sunday, focusing the heaviest rains on Hawaiʻi Island before gradually weakening Monday. However, saturated soils mean landslides and stream rises will linger well into next week. Residents in low-lying areas should keep emergency go-bags ready, avoid crossing flooded roads and monitor NOAA Weather Radio for rapidly changing conditions. What to do now: • Turn around, don’t drown—just six inches of flowing water can sweep away a car. • Secure loose outdoor items; winds will stay gusty even after the rain bands move on. • Visitors should confirm reservations and consider postponing beach or hiking plans until officials give the all-clear. Bottom line: This mid-March Hawaii storm is the most potent Kona low in years, and its slow pace magnifies flooding, wind and snow impacts. Stay weather-aware, heed local advisories and expect continued disruptions through the weekend.