Hurricane Fausto, a Category 2 storm, expected near Hawaii

A major hurricane in the Pacific Ocean is forecast to approach the Hawaiian Islands next week, bringing the threat of dangerous surf, rip currents, and potential wind and rain impacts. Hurricane Fausto, a Category 2 storm with sustained winds of 100 to 105 mph, is moving westward and is expected to pass near or just north of the island chain around the middle of the week.

As of Friday, July 24, the storm was centered approximately 1,560 miles east of Hilo. Forecasters with the National Hurricane Center predict Fausto will gradually weaken over the weekend as it encounters cooler waters, stronger wind shear, and drier air in the Central Pacific. The system is expected to diminish to tropical storm strength by the time it nears Hawaii.

Officials warn that even if the center of the storm remains offshore, significant coastal hazards are likely. The primary threats are high surf and dangerous rip currents, especially for east and north-facing beaches across Maui, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi, and Oʻahu. The National Weather Service in Honolulu stated that large, long-period swells generated by Fausto are expected to produce advisory-level surf along east-facing shores beginning Sunday, July 26,...