If you’re visiting Maui this week, you may have heard two names appearing frequently in the weather forecast: Hurricane Lowell and Hurricane Karina.
Both storms are being closely monitored, but their potential impacts on Hawaiʻi are very different. Here’s the latest information for Maui visitors as of Thursday, September 3.
Hurricane Lowell
Hurricane Lowell is currently the storm receiving the most attention in Hawaiʻi.
As of Thursday evening, Lowell was a Category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of about 130 mph. The storm was approximately 495 miles south-southwest of Hilo and moving west at about 9 mph. Forecasters expect Lowell to remain a major hurricane through the weekend before turning toward the northwest and north.
The exact track and impacts are still uncertain.
For Maui County, the immediate concerns are strong winds, high surf and potentially heavy rain. A Wind Advisory has been in effect for portions of Maui County, while a High Surf Advisory is in effect for south and southeast-facing shores.
The National Weather Service says swells generated by Lowell have already reached Hawaiʻi and will remain elevated through Friday.
What About Hurricane Karina?
Karina is farther away and currently poses considerably less concern for Maui.
As of Thursday evening, Karina was about 1,085 miles east of Hilo with maximum sustained winds near 105 mph. It is moving west-northwest and is expected to gradually weaken. Current forecasts indicate Karina should remain well northeast of Hawaiʻi.
If You’re Visiting Maui
The most important thing right now is to stay informed rather than panic. Storm tracks can change, and conditions can evolve quickly.
Maui County encourages residents and visitors to monitor official updates, stay aware of changing weather and avoid beaches or ocean activities when surf and currents become dangerous.
If you’re exploring Maui by car, give yourself extra time, watch for changing road conditions and never drive through standing or moving water.
For the latest information, check the National Weather Service Honolulu forecast and Maui Emergency Management Agency.
At Kihei Rent A Car, we want our visitors to have an amazing Maui experience, but safety always comes first. Keep an eye on the forecast, follow local guidance and enjoy the island when conditions are safe.
🌺 Stay safe, stay informed and take care of one another.
