Summary (tl;dr)

Hurricane Fausto, currently a Category 2 storm, is tracking towards Hawaii and is expected to weaken to a tropical storm before reaching the islands next week, bringing increasing risks of wind, rain, and hazardous surf.

Essential Background

Hurricane Fausto formed as a tropical depression on July 19, 2026, in the eastern Pacific, strengthening into a tropical storm the same day and becoming the first hurricane of the 2026 Eastern Pacific season on July 21. It has since intensified to a Category 2 hurricane, with maximum sustained winds of 105 mph as of Friday, July 24, 2026. The 2026 Central Pacific hurricane season is predicted to have above-normal activity, with forecasters anticipating moderate to strong El Niño conditions, which typically increase tropical cyclone activity in the region.

The Full Story

Hurricane Fausto is currently approximately 1,460 to 1,560 miles east of Hilo, Hawaii, moving west at 15-16 mph. It is expected to continue on this general track for several days. Forecasters anticipate gradual weakening as the storm moves over cooler waters and encounters drier air and increasing wind shear, likely reducing it to a tropical storm by the time it reaches the vicinity of the Hawaiian Islands early to mid next week. While no coastal watches or warnings are currently in effect for Hawaii, there is an increasing risk of impacts from wind and rainfall across the state, with high surf advisories extended for south-facing shores due to long-period south-southwest swells. Emergency management agencies in Kauai, Maui, and Hawaii counties are advising residents to monitor the storm's progress and prepare for potential impacts by making emergency plans and assembling supplies.

Why It Matters

The approach of Hurricane Fausto, even as a weakened tropical storm, is significant because it marks the first hurricane of the 2026 season to enter the Central Pacific Basin, prompting a reminder for Hawaii residents to be prepared for hurricane season. The potential for high winds, heavy rainfall, and life-threatening surf and rip current conditions poses risks to public safety and infrastructure across the Hawaiian Islands. Officials are urging preparedness, highlighting the importance of having emergency plans, trimming vegetation, clearing debris, and stocking essential supplies, as county services and facilities may close with little notice if conditions warrant.

Geographic Location

• Central Pacific Basin (Hurricane Fausto forming and moving)
• Hilo, Hawaii, Hawaii County, Hawaii, United States (Hurricane Fausto located east of)
• Hawaiian Islands, Hawaii, United States (Projected path and potential impacts)
• Maui County, Hawaii, United States (Officials encouraging preparedness)
• Kauai County, Hawaii, United States (Officials encouraging preparedness)
• Hawaii County, Hawaii, United States (Officials encouraging preparedness)