Hurricane Lowell nears Hawaii, prompting warnings for 3 islands

Two of Hawaii’s islands are under hurricane warnings as Lowell, a Category 3 storm , nears. Lowell is expected to pass to the west of Kauai and Niihau late Monday and early Tuesday morning, according to the National Weather Service. A hurricane warning has been issued for both islands, with a tropical storm warning in effect for Oahu. “Preparations to protect life and property should be rushed to completion,” the NWS said. Kauai County Mayor Derek Kawakami urged residents to be off the roads by midday on Monday. “Over the past 24 hours we have watched this system veer closer to us, too close for comfort,” Kawakami said. “I hope you have spent these last few days preparing for the worst. If you are still making last-minute preparations, finish them this morning.” The island of Niihau, located less than 20 miles southwest of Kauai, does not have a mayor and is technically part of Kauai County.

Missing media or need the complete publisher report? Open NBC News ↗