Fausto expected to pass north of Hawaii; dangerous surf forecast for Maui
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Hurricane Fausto has weakened to a tropical storm as it continues on a path north of the Hawaiian Islands.
While forecasters expect Fausto to pass north of Hawaii, residents are being cautioned to continue monitoring the storm because of its potential impacts. The storm is already generating large surf and strong currents along east-facing shores.
According to the National Weather Service, Fausto had maximum sustained winds of 65 mph. It was centered about 340 miles east-northeast of Hilo and moving west-northwest at 15 mph.
A High Surf Warning remains in effect through 6 p.m. Wednesday for east-facing shores. The NWS also warned of dangerous rip currents, wave overwash onto beaches and roadways, and hazardous conditions at harbor entrances.
Residents and visitors are urged to stay away from the shoreline, while boaters are advised to postpone entering or leaving affected channels until conditions improve.
Maui Emergency Management Agency and county departments have been coordinating preparations, including readying emergency personnel, clearing storm drains, testing generators and identifying shelters should they become necessary. Hawaiian Electric also said it is monitoring the storm and urged customers to review emergency plans and preparedness supplies.