Hurricane Nolo Intensifies Into Category 3 Storm With Winds Reaching 185 Kmph

New Delhi: Hurricane Nolo, formed in the Pacific Ocean, has rapidly strengthened into a Category 3 storm. According to the US National Hurricane Center, Nolo's maximum sustained wind speed was recorded on Saturday evening at about 115 miles per hour i.e. 185 kilometres per hour. However, it is a matter of relief that the storm is moving in the west direction, far away from the main and populated islands of Hawaii. At that time, Nolo was about 200 miles (320 kilometres) southwest of Lisianski Island and was moving west at a speed of about 20 miles per hour. 

What is the current status of Nolo?

According to the NHC, Nolo entered the major hurricane category on Saturday. Its maximum sustained winds were 115 mph at the evening update and its center was located southwest of Lisyansky Island. The storm continued to move rapidly westward in subsequent updates. During the night its speed was recorded at about 110 miles per hour and it was moving towards the International Date Line. 

How big is the threat to Hawaii?

Nolo is not currently expected to pose a direct threat to Hawaii's main populated islands. According to the NHC, the storm's path is likely to stay well away from the northwestern islands of Hawaii. Therefore, its main impact can be seen in the form of high and dangerous waves of the sea. 

In which areas was a warning issued?

Due to Nolo, a weather warning was issued in the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument area. This is a huge protected marine area spread out to the northwest of Hawaii. NHC said a large ocean swell from Maro Reef to Lisianski Island could cause inundation of low-lying atolls.  

Had Nolo ever reached Hawaii before?

This system of Nolo has previously passed near Hawaii. After this its strength weakened and it reached tropical storm status. Later, when sea conditions became favourable, it regained strength and became a Category-3 hurricane on Saturday. According to NHC's forecast, its intensity is likely to fluctuate for some time, while it was expected to weaken from Monday.

When will it cross the International Date Line?

Nolo continues to move westward. According to US weather officials, it was expected to cross the International Date Line on Sunday. After this the storm will enter the western Pacific region. In the overnight update, Nolo was moving west at about 18 mph. Meanwhile, Hurricane Rachel has also been active in other parts of the Pacific Ocean. However, its impact is in a different area than Nolo. Meteorologists have advised caution due to high waves and dangerous surf along the west coast of Mexico and the California Peninsula. In such a situation, weather agencies are keeping an eye on simultaneously active storm systems in the Pacific region.