Tropical Cyclone Discussion

221
WTPA44 PHFO 041826
TCDCP4
 
Hurricane Lowell Special Discussion Number  34
NWS Central Pacific Hurricane Center Honolulu HI   EP122026
Issued by NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL
830 AM HST Fri Sep 04 2026

The Air Force Hurricane Hunters are currently investigating Lowell
and have found that hurricane has strengthened significantly. On
their first pass through the center they found a peak 700 mb
flight-level wind of 145 kt, which corresponds to an initial
intensity of roughly 130 kt. In addition, dropsonde data indicate
that the minimum pressure is around 930 mb. The major hurricane
could strengthen some more, and possibly regain category 5 intensity
later today or tonight.  The new intensity forecast is notably
higher than the previous one in the short term, but is identical to
the prior forecast from 72 to 120 h.
 
No changes were made to the track or wind radii forecasts.  The
next regular advisory will be issued by 11 AM HST/2100 UTC.
 
 
KEY MESSAGES:
 
1. Lowell could be near major hurricane strength when it moves
close to the western Hawaiian Islands late Monday and Monday night.
Regardless of the hurricane's exact track and intensity, there is a
risk of storm surge, wind, and rainfall impacts for portions of
Hawaii, particularly Kauai County, early next week.
 
2. Interests in Hawaii should continue to closely monitor the
progress of Lowell through the upcoming Labor Day weekend, listen to
the advice of local officials, and ensure they have their hurricane
plan and supply kit in place. Watches are likely to be issued for a
portion of the state on Saturday.
 
3. Swells from Lowell are likely to cause life-threatening surf
and rip current conditions in portions of the Hawaiian Islands
during the next several days.  These swells are likely to increase
early next week.
 
 
FORECAST POSITIONS AND MAX WINDS
 
INIT  04/1830Z 13.3N 160.4W  130 KT 150 MPH
 12H  05/0000Z 13.2N 161.1W  140 KT 160 MPH
 24H  05/1200Z 13.4N 162.3W  140 KT 160 MPH
 36H  06/0000Z 13.8N 163.3W  135 KT 155 MPH
 48H  06/1200Z 14.5N 163.8W  130 KT 150 MPH
 60H  07/0000Z 15.7N 163.9W  125 KT 145 MPH
 72H  07/1200Z 17.4N 163.4W  115 KT 130 MPH
 96H  08/1200Z 22.2N 162.6W   95 KT 110 MPH
120H  09/1200Z 26.8N 163.1W   75 KT  85 MPH