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| © Getty Images Sea wave during storm. (photo via andrej67 / iStock / Getty Images Plus) |
By Donald Wood, TravelPulse
As Hurricane Olivia continues to churn through the Pacific Ocean, officials in the Hawaiian Islands have issued several tropical storm warnings.
According to the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, tropical storm warnings were issued Sunday for Hawaii and Maui counties, and a tropical storm watch is in effect for Oahu. The Category 1 hurricane is expected to weaken into a tropical storm as it approaches the island chain.
Forecasters expect the storm to begin impacting portions of Hawaii late Tuesday.
Hurricane Olivia registered sustained winds of 75 miles per hour Monday and will bring strong winds, high surf conditions, storm surge along shorelines, heavy rainfall and the potential for flooding throughout the state.
Ahead of the storm’s arrival, several major airlines, including American and United, have started waiving travel change fees for those with scheduled flights to or from Hawaii over the coming days.
For cruise passengers, Norwegian Cruise Line said it will continue to monitor the storm to determine a course of action for the Hawaii-based Pride of America. In addition, KHON2.com revealed ports on Maui and Hawaii island are preparing for potential closures.
The Hawaii Tourism Authority is advising residents and visitors to be prepared for the storm, including stocking up on food, water, medications, and essential goods. Tourists currently in or with confirmed trips to the Hawaiian Islands should contact their airlines, accommodations and activity providers to see if adjustments to travel plans are needed.
