HILO, HAWAII — Three powerful storms are unfolding across the country and its waters this week, creating a multi-front weather crisis that spans from the Pacific to the Atlantic.
Hawaii is facing potentially life-threatening flooding as future Hurricane Nolo tracks nearby, with rainfall totals of 24 to 36 inches projected around Hilo on the Big Island and a localized maximum of up to 55 inches possible. At the same time, a significant September nor’easter is set to impact millions along the East Coast from New York to Boston and Portland, while Hurricane Polo spins as a powerful storm off the coast of Mexico.
Hilo and the Big Island: 24 to 36 Inches of Rain in the Bullseye
The heaviest rain from future Hurricane Nolo is expected to focus on the eastern side of the Big Island, where Hilo sits in the bullseye of 24 to 36 inches. Areas just west of Hilo are projected to receive 18 to 24 inches, while communities to the south could see 12 to 18 inches.
AccuWeather’s Local StormMax for this event stands at a staggering 55 inches, meaning isolated spots—likely along the windward mountain slopes—could receive rain totals far beyond the broader forecast.
Rain of this magnitude can trigger:
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Flash flooding
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Mudslides and rockfalls
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Fast-rising streams
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Washed-out roads
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Communities cut off for extended periods
Maui, Oahu, and Kauai: Also in the Rain Zone
The rain shield is forecast to extend across much of the Hawaiian island chain:
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Kahului and Central Maui: 8 to 12 inches—enough to cause serious flooding in low-lying and poorly drained areas
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Honolulu and Oahu: 2 to 4 inches
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Lihue (Kauai): 2 to 4 inches
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Southwest waters: 1 to 2 inches (lighter range)
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Offshore waters (east and southeast of Big Island): 4 to 8 inches
Even the lower totals can cause problems on islands with steep terrain, where runoff moves quickly into streams and urban drainage systems.
Nor’easter Brings Moderate to Major Coastal Impacts to the Northeast
On the other side of the country, a significant September nor’easter is expected to impact millions along the East Coast.
Moderate coastal impacts are forecast along a long stretch of shoreline including:
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Toms River, New Jersey
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New York City
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Long Island
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Milford, Connecticut
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Rhode Island coast
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Much of the Maine coastline near Portland
Major coastal impacts are highlighted around:
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Boston
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Cape Cod
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Parts of the Massachusetts and New Hampshire coast
Strong onshore northeast winds will push water toward the coastline, raising the risk of:
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Coastal flooding
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Beach erosion
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Rough surf
Residents in shoreline neighborhoods should watch for flooding around high tide, when water levels are typically at their worst during a nor’easter.
What the Nor’easter Could Mean for Daily Life
Beyond coastal flooding, the nor’easter brings multiple disruptions:
Power and Infrastructure:
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Gusty winds could bring down tree limbs
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Scattered power outages likely, especially where trees still carry full leaves in late September
Travel Disruptions:
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Major corridors in the Northeast could see delays
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Flight delays possible at busy airports serving New York and Boston
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Coastal roads prone to flooding may need to close temporarily
Hurricane Polo: Powerful Storm Spinning Off Mexico’s Coast
The third storm, Hurricane Polo, is spinning off the coast of Mexico as a powerful hurricane. Satellite imagery shows a well-defined, compact eye surrounded by intense thunderstorm activity—a classic sign of a strong and organized system.
Coastal communities in Mexico should monitor the storm closely for any changes in track. Even if the center stays offshore, a storm of this strength can send dangerous surf and rip currents toward the coastline.
How to Prepare Across All Three Storm Zones
In Hawaii (Hurricane Nolo):
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Avoid streams, gulches, and flood-prone roads
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Be ready to move to higher ground quickly if flooding develops
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Never attempt to cross flowing water on foot or by vehicle
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Secure outdoor items and prepare for possible evacuation
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Stock emergency supplies: water, food, flashlights, batteries
Along the Northeast Coast (Nor’easter):
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Move vehicles out of flood-prone lots
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Secure outdoor items that could blow away in strong winds
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Charge phones and backup batteries in case of power outages
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Avoid coastal areas during high tide
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Have a go-bag ready if you live in evacuation zones
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Fill prescriptions and stock up on essentials before stores close
Near Mexico’s Coastline (Hurricane Polo):
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Follow guidance from local officials
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Stay away from beaches during high surf
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Monitor storm track updates closely
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Prepare for possible evacuation if storm turns toward land
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Secure boats and marine equipment
General Preparedness for All Three Storms:
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Keep a weather radio or smartphone alerts enabled
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Know your evacuation routes
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Have emergency contact numbers saved
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Check on elderly neighbors and vulnerable family members
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Keep vehicles fueled in case you need to leave quickly
Bottom Line
Conditions can change quickly with all three storms, so keep checking the latest forecasts and official alerts throughout the week. Whether you’re in Hawaii facing historic rainfall, along the East Coast bracing for coastal flooding, or near Mexico monitoring Hurricane Polo’s track, preparation and awareness are your best defenses.
Stay safe, stay informed, and don’t underestimate the power of these storms.
