Hurricane Hone made its presence felt on Hawaii’s Big Island over the weekend, passing within 60 miles of the island early Sunday. The storm brought heavy rain, knocking out power to thousands of residents and causing disruptions across the island. Despite these challenges, local authorities reported no significant damage or injuries. However, the storm’s impact on the tourism and travel industry in Hawaii was profound, influencing both current and future travel plans.
More than 20,000 customers on the Big Island were without electricity by Sunday afternoon, leaving a substantial portion of the island’s population of approximately 206,000 in the dark. Mitch Roth, the mayor of Hawaii County, which encompasses the Big Island, confirmed that while there were no reports of major damage, the island faced numerous challenges. These included over 20 road closures caused by flooding and downed trees, disrupting the lives of both residents and tourists, who found themselves navigating unexpected delays and detours.
Kazuo Todd, the fire chief for Hawaii County, reported that nearly 18 inches of rain had fallen around the volcanoes in the southern part of the island. Despite the heavy rainfall, the island’s natural geography allowed water to drain quickly into the ocean, preventing more severe flooding. Forecasters warned that up to 20 inches of rain could still fall in certain areas as the storm continued its slow movement, pushing moisture across the islands. This raised concerns about flash flooding and the potential for further road closures, impacting travel plans for both residents and visitors.
As the storm progressed, the Central Pacific Hurricane Center predicted that wind and rainfall would gradually diminish through Sunday evening. However, the storm was still producing life-threatening surf and rip currents, leading to the closure of many beach parks on the island. For tourists, these closures meant limited access to some of Hawaii’s most popular attractions, affecting the overall travel experience.
The impact of Hurricane Hone on the tourism industry was not just limited to beach closures. The threat of flash flooding and hazardous road conditions likely deterred tourists from venturing out, leading to reduced activity in key tourist areas. Mr. Roth mentioned one report of flooding in a home and anticipated more reports of damage as the day progressed. Such incidents, although isolated, contribute to a general sense of uncertainty and caution among tourists, who may reconsider their travel plans or seek alternative destinations.
Despite the challenges posed by Hurricane Hone, many residents of the Big Island demonstrated resilience and adaptability. For example, Phil Becker, 82, and his wife Merle, 80, found themselves trapped on their property due to flooded bridges but remained unfazed, relying on their solar panels and batteries for power. Similarly, local events continued as planned, with one baseball league on the northern tip of the island holding its banquet on Saturday evening despite the gusty winds.
In contrast, some residents, like Sean O’Phelan in Nanawale Estates, expressed concern about the potential damage from the storm. Living off the grid, Mr. O’Phelan worried about the possibility of trees falling on his property, as had happened during a previous storm. He also voiced concerns about his neighbors, many of whom live in tents and are more vulnerable to severe weather conditions. However, he expressed confidence in the community’s ability to support one another during such crises.
The broader implications of Hurricane Hone on Hawaii’s travel industry are significant. The storm serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities that come with living and traveling in a region prone to natural disasters. For the travel industry, this means heightened awareness of the need for robust emergency response plans and clear communication with tourists during such events.
As the storm subsided, attention turned to Hurricane Gilma, a Category 3 storm east of Hawaii. Forecasters expected it to weaken before reaching the state, but its approach underscored the ongoing risks that hurricanes pose to the region. For the tourism industry, this means preparing for potential disruptions and ensuring that travelers are informed and safe during their stay.
In conclusion, while Hurricane Hone did not cause major damage, its impact on the travel and tourism industry in Hawaii was significant. The storm led to power outages, road closures, and beach park shutdowns, all of which disrupted the experience for both residents and tourists. As Hawaii continues to navigate the challenges posed by such storms, the travel industry must adapt and prepare for future events to ensure the safety and satisfaction of visitors.
