Gusty Winds, Heavy Rains Pummel Hawaii

Multiple power outages reported as storm continues through Monday

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Hawaii is under a high wind warning and flood watch as a weekend storm brings heavy rain, thunderstorms, and flash flooding threats across the islands. Damaging winds have already caused power outages affecting thousands of customers, with concerns for sports fans trying to watch the Winter Olympics and Super Bowl. The weather pattern is expected to shift by Tuesday, but strong trade winds will continue to bring scattered showers.

Why it matters

Hawaii's severe weather events can significantly disrupt daily life, transportation, and power infrastructure across the islands. This storm highlights the ongoing challenges the state faces in preparing for and responding to extreme weather driven by climate change.

The details

The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning and flood watch for all Hawaiian islands from Sunday morning through Monday afternoon. Forecasters expect northeast winds of 25-35 mph with gusts up to 60 mph, which could blow down trees, power lines, and damage roofs. Power outages have already been reported across Oahu, Maui, and Hawaii Island, affecting over 1,200 customers in some areas. The heavy rain and thunderstorms also pose a serious flash flooding threat, especially along windward slopes.

  • The high wind warning is in effect from 6 a.m. Sunday to 6 p.m. Monday.
  • The flood watch continues through Monday afternoon.
  • Parts of the Big Island recorded over 7 inches of rain in a 3-hour period this weekend.
  • A rain gauge in Honokaa recorded over 10 inches of rain in the 24-hour period ending at 7:45 a.m. today.
  • The weather pattern is expected to shift by Monday night, eliminating heavy rain and thunderstorm threats by Tuesday.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather warnings across the United States, including Hawaii.

Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO)

The primary electric utility provider serving the Hawaiian islands, responsible for restoring power during outages.

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What they’re saying

“An upper level low just west of the islands and windy trade winds will produce periods of heavy rain, a few thunderstorms and flash flooding threats lasting through Monday afternoon.”

— National Weather Service forecasters (staradvertiser.com)

“Hazardous driving conditions due to powerful cross-winds will pose a serious risk for drivers, especially for light weight and high profile vehicles. Loose outdoor items should be brought inside or secured properly … Stay away from downed power lines.”

— National Weather Service forecasters (staradvertiser.com)

What’s next

HECO officials said they would increase staffing to deal with potential power outages caused by the storm.

The takeaway

This severe weather event underscores the ongoing challenges Hawaii faces in preparing for and responding to the impacts of climate change, including more frequent and intense storms that can disrupt critical infrastructure and daily life across the islands.