HECO: Monitoring TS Nolo, Preparing for Probable Impact

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(September 24, 2026) HONOLULU – With the approach of Tropical Storm Nolo and probable impact to the state starting later today, Hawaiian Electric is proactively preparing to respond.

“With Tropical Storm Nolo’s potential to impact our service territories, we’re taking every action possible to ensure we are ready to respond and can do so quickly to safely restore power to customers who may be affected,” said Jim Alberts, Hawaiian Electric’s senior vice president and chief operations officer.

The company is maintaining a 24-hour watch on Nolo’s path in order to position crews and equipment in areas most likely to be affected. Crews that were helping Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative following Tropical Storm Lowell are returning to their Hawaiian Electric bases and will be on-hand for storm response on Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi Island and in Maui County.

Customers should also prepare their own homes and properties. Have a trained or certified professional trim trees to provide a minimum of 10 feet clearance from power lines. Remove damaged or dying vegetation that could be at risk of falling during strong winds.

“Downed trees and branches are some of the biggest causes of damaged power poles, lines and equipment in a storm,” said Alberts. “During Hurricane Lala, vegetation and flooding caused roughly 90% of the power outages on Hawaiʻi Island. On Oʻahu and Maui County, it was about 50%.”

Fallen trees that block roads or access to a customer’s property could also delay crews who are trying to restore power. Property owners need to clear trees, tree limbs and other vegetation or debris in order for Hawaiian Electric crews to access private property to restore power.

Customers should also secure any loose items like tents, outdoor furniture, trash cans, grills and anything that could become a projectile in strong winds. More preparation and safety tips are available at hawaiianelectric.com/stormcenter.

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