Hurricane Lowell Batters Hawaii: Fatalities, Power Outages, and Disrupted Services Amid Recovery Efforts
September 10, 2026
Lowell weakened to a tropical storm after unleashing damaging winds, then moved westward over open water with the center remaining offshore during its passage.
Power outages affected a large portion of Kauai, with roughly 16,000 customers still without power as utilities worked to restore service to facilities including three hospitals.
Electricity restoration efforts continued on Kauai, bringing power back to three hospitals while tens of thousands remained in the dark as authorities reported on progress.
Forecasters cautioned that Norbert could gradually strengthen, but there were no active watches or warnings at the time of reporting.
All flights at Lihue Airport were canceled with plans to reopen once conditions were safe; Kauai and Oahu also closed schools and government offices during cleanup and damage assessments.
Voluntary evacuation advisories were issued for about 650 homes on Kauai’s south and west shores due to storm surge, with shelters opened for residents and pets.
Hawaii Governor mobilized federal help by requesting a major disaster declaration to expedite relief for Kauai and Maui counties, arguing for federal action beyond simple dollar valuations.
Coastal flooding and debris disrupted Maui County's transportation network, with damage to infrastructure and closures of parks and services.
Lanai’s cargo port, a critical supply entry point, was inoperable due to the storm, highlighting disruption to essential services on the island.
The storm damaged homes and caused widespread power outages, with transportation disruption and a large National Guard deployment to support recovery efforts.
Hurricane Lowell caused dangerous surf, strong winds and fatalities in Hawaii, including at least two deaths on Kauai and Oahu as authorities confirm the storm's impact.
In Oahu, a homeless man died when a large tree collapsed onto his tent during the storm, underscoring the danger from the winds and debris.
Summary based on 5 sources
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Sources

AP News • Sep 10, 2026
Hurricane Lowell linked to at least 2 deaths in Hawaii | AP News
Boston Herald • Sep 10, 2026
Hurricane Lowell battered Hawaii’s western islands and is linked to at least 2 deaths
The Boston Globe • Sep 10, 2026
Hurricane Lowell kills 2 in Hawaii