Hurricane Lane: Hawaii BRACED for FLOODING’ as storm heads straight for Big Island

The Category 4 hurricane is predicted to hit the island with maximum sustained winds of 130-156mph and it is thought the ferocious hurricane will hit the island at round 8am local time.

Weather experts have predicted that the ferocious cyclone will pose a significant threat to property and lives as it brings torrential rain, gale force winds and the potential for catastrophic flooding.

Tropical storm conditions will get heavier on Big Island into Friday.

Experts predict that the hurricane will spread northwest across the rest of the islands through this weekend.

Wind speeds in some areas could reach as high as a whipping 60mph.

AccuWeather Hurricane expert Dan Kottlowski predicts winds high in the atmosphere are increasing.

Rainfall of 6 to 12 inches is likely in many locations and will lead to extensive flash flooding.

Reports warn that some bridges and roads could be wiped out altogether or severly damaged.

AccuWeather’s Local StormMax service says some areas could receive 24 inches where rain persists along the mountainsides.

This amount of rainfall will lead to extensive flash flooding. Expect some bridges and roads to be washed out or severely damaged.

Mr Kottlowski said: “People living in flood and mudslide prone areas should be prepared to evacuate.”

“Gusts to and exceeding hurricane force (74 mph) are likely as heavier squalls move through.

“Hurricane-force gusts can lead to widespread power outages, uprooted trees, flying debris and property damage.

“All of the impacts from flooding, wind and heavy seas can be life-threatening,” Kottlowski said.

“All residents, visitors and interests of the Hawaiian Islands should closely monitor Hurricane Lane and heed advisories and warnings from government officials.”

The closer the devasting hurricane gets to the individual islands, the more severe weather conditions, damage and risk to lives there will be.

AccuWeather stated on their website that the situation remains serious for lives and property throughout the area.

Residents have been warned not to attempt to drive through flooded areas and to avoid streams.

NOAA issued its latest hurricane advisory this morning at 11pm local time.

At the moment, Hurricane Lane’s eye is just 235 miles from Kailua in Hawaii and is moving toward the northwest near 7mph (11 km/h).

The report read: “This general motion is expected through Thursday, with a gradual turn toward the northwest. On Friday, a turn toward the north is anticipated as Lane’s forward motion slows even more.