On Hawaii’s Big Island, Hurricane Hone Brings Heavy Rain but No Major Damage
Big Island Bears the Brunt of Hurricane Hone
Hurricane Hone blew itself out over Hawaii’s Big Island this past Sunday, splashing the tropical locale with heavy rains and causing significant power outages. Over 20,000 residents found themselves without power. Despite the amount of rain and initial concern, the storm resulted in no reports of injuries or severe damage.
Native ohia trees were not so fortunate, as many were snapped like mere twigs in the storm’s fury. The Big Island, home to 206,000 people, braced itself for the worst and was relieved when the storm failed to cause significant harm.
No Major Damage Despite Heavy Rainfall
Mitch Roth, the mayor of Hawaii County which includes the entirety of the Big Island, proudly reported that not only were there no injuries, but also no major damage was recorded despite the weather conditions. Even though the downpour reached nearly 18 inches in the southern parts of the island around the volcanoes, the island’s infrastructure remained notably unscathed.
Storm Activity and Island Resilience
“We do live on an island in the Pacific where the water can drain off into the ocean relatively quickly,” noted Fire Chief Kazuo Todd, expressing gratitude for the island’s natural resilience to such weather conditions. While the rainfall totals were substantial, the quick drainage prevented major flooding from occurring.
Despite the passing of Hone, weather forecasters warn that the region could still expect up to 20 inches of rain as the remaining storm moisture spreads across all the islands. As the storm’s activity decreases, its accumulated moisture is anticipated to lead to more rainfall, threatening potential flash flooding in some areas.
Heavy Rain but No Panic
The storm, which was at a category 1 level as it moved westward below the islands, effectively caused a surge in moisture over all Hawaiian islands. The island’s inhabitants, though, remain unperturbed. Residing on an island, they are used to experiencing water-related inclement weather events like this one.
In Hilo, Hawaii, floodwaters were observed flowing through a soccer complex as a result of the heavy rain. Residents, however, maintain their calm and continue to carry out the necessary steps to ensure their safety and the protection of their property.
As the aftermath of Hurricane Hone continues to unfold, the community sticks together, lending helping hands whenever required. The story of resilience in the face of nature’s wrath continues to inspire. All are reminded that even in the bleakest times, there is much to be grateful for and a lot of good that comes out of the storm.
