Hurricane Fausto Expected to Weaken Before Approaching Hawaii, Officials Urge Residents to Stay Prepared
Hurricane Fausto is forecast to weaken before reaching Hawaii next week, but emergency officials are continuing to advise residents to remain prepared for potentially hazardous weather conditions.
According to the latest update from the National Weather Service (NWS), the storm was moving across the Central Pacific as a Category 2 hurricane on Friday.
Storm Continues Across the Pacific
As of the latest advisory, Hurricane Fausto was located approximately 1,385 miles east of Hilo, Hawaii, with maximum sustained winds of around 105 mph.
Forecasters expect the hurricane to gradually lose strength as it moves toward the Hawaiian Islands. However, weather experts caution that weakening storms can still produce significant impacts.
Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Expected
National Weather Service meteorologist Matthew Fister said the primary concerns include strong winds, heavy rainfall, and increased moisture across the region.
He noted that the storm could also bring a higher risk of localized flooding and large waves along east-facing shorelines, even if its intensity decreases before reaching Hawaii.
Earliest Arrival Expected Tuesday
Current forecasts indicate that the earliest effects of Hurricane Fausto could reach Hawaii on Tuesday, July 28, with the system most likely approaching the islands later that day if it maintains its current track and speed.
Officials emphasized that forecasts may change as the storm continues to move across the Pacific.
Emergency Agencies Monitoring the Situation
The Honolulu Department of Emergency Management (DEM) said it is working closely with state and county agencies to ensure resources and emergency services are ready if the storm affects the islands.
DEM Director Randal Collins said emergency teams are coordinating preparations to maintain a high level of operational readiness.
Residents Encouraged to Prepare
Authorities are reminding residents not to rely solely on forecasts showing the storm weakening.
Officials recommend reviewing emergency plans, securing outdoor items, preparing emergency supply kits, and staying informed through official weather updates.
Emergency management officials also pointed to previous severe weather events as a reminder that even weaker storm systems can produce heavy rainfall, strong winds, localized flooding, and power outages.
Residents are encouraged to continue monitoring updates from the National Weather Service and local emergency management agencies as Hurricane Fausto approaches the Central Pacific.
