#hawaii

National Hurricane Center Tracks Four Potential Tropical Cyclones in Pacific The National Hurricane Center is closely monitoring four distinct areas in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, all of which could develop into tropical cyclones by early September. Three of these regions have at least a 70% chance of producing a storm, with two overlapping zones southwest of Mexico showing the highest likelihood. The Pacific has become a hub for storm activity, with the east Pacific already experiencing its 10th named tropical storm of the year, Tropical Storm Julio, which formed about 10 days earlier than usual. This surge in activity has brought the basin close to its annual average of 15 storms, with three months of hurricane season still remaining. El Niño is a dominant factor driving this increased activity. The phenomenon has warmed the tropical Pacific to record levels, creating ideal conditions for frequent storm development. The National Hurricane Center noted that El Niño is so strong it is "drowning out" the Madden-Julian Oscillation, a regular weather pattern that typically influences cyclone activity in the central and east Pacific. Normally, the MJO causes fluctuations in storm frequency every two to six weeks, but El Niño’s effects have led to nearly continuous thunderstorm activity. These persistent storms provide the necessary energy for tropical cyclones to form, with the "hot spot" expected to persist through early September. While most storms are likely to remain far from land, Hawaii and California face potential impacts. The central Pacific, particularly near Hawaii, has seen more energetic storm activity than the entire Atlantic basin this year.#hawaii #el_nio #madden_julian_oscillation #national_hurricane_center #tropical_storm_julio

Hawaii Faces Intensifying Tropical Storm Moke Amid El Niño-Driven Weather Patterns For the second consecutive week, Hawaii is experiencing the impact of an intensifying tropical storm. As of 5 a.m. ET, Tropical Storm Moke was located 545 miles southeast of Hilo, Hawaii, with maximum sustained winds of 45 mph. The storm was moving west-northwest at 8 miles per hour. While it is expected to remain a tropical storm, its center is predicted to pass well to the south of the Big Island. However, the storm will likely bring heavy rains and gusty winds to an area still recovering from the previous storm, which caused significant damage. Last week, Hurricane Lala intensified while swirling just south of the Big Island. That storm dumped torrential rain—more than 3 feet in some areas on the windward side of the island—that triggered damaging landslides and flash flooding. These events cut off small communities, destroyed homes, and damaged critical infrastructure. At least one fatality has been blamed on the storm’s impact. The devastation linked to these storms is largely attributed to El Niño. In normal years, Hawaii avoids tropical storm and hurricane damage due to cooler ocean waters acting as a natural barrier. However, El Niño has disrupted this pattern by raising ocean temperatures to the east and southeast of Hawaii, where storms typically form and approach the islands. It has also increased water temperatures to the south of Hawaii, exacerbating the region’s vulnerability. In non-El Niño years, hurricanes moving west or northwest toward Hawaii encounter cooler ocean waters and stronger upper-level winds as they approach the islands. These factors weaken storms, as they derive energy from warm ocean waters and thrive when upper-level winds are weak.#national_weather_service #hawaii #el_nino #hurricane_lala #tropical_storm_moke

Hawaii's Big Island Faces Another Foot of Rain Just After Lala's Deadly Flooding and Landslides Hawaii is bracing for another round of heavy rainfall and potential flooding as Tropical Storm Moke approaches, just weeks after the devastating impact of Hurricane Lala. The Big Island, already reeling from catastrophic flooding and landslides caused by Lala last weekend, now faces the threat of additional torrential downpours that could exacerbate existing damage. The National Hurricane Center has issued warnings, emphasizing the risks of flash flooding and further destabilization of already vulnerable areas. Tropical Storm Moke, currently located more than 500 miles southeast of Hilo, is moving west-northwest toward the Hawaiian Islands. The storm was first identified as a tropical depression on Thursday and upgraded to a tropical storm on Friday. While its projected path takes it farther south of the islands compared to Lala’s previous track, meteorologists caution that proximity to the Big Island remains a significant concern. The storm’s closest approach to the island is expected to occur on Sunday, after which it will shift southward on Monday. The National Hurricane Center’s forecast indicates that rainfall will intensify by Sunday, with the Big Island facing 5 to 15 inches of rain, particularly over mountainous regions and eastern slopes. This level of precipitation could trigger life-threatening flash flooding and landslides, especially in areas already weakened by Lala’s storm surge. A flood watch has been issued for the Big Island, highlighting the urgency of preparedness efforts. Maui is also under threat, with up to 4 inches of rain anticipated, while the smaller islands could see up to 2 inches.#hawaii #national_hurricane_center #hurricane_lala #big_island #tropical_storm_moke

New Study Reveals America's Preferred AC Temperature A recent sleep study conducted by Bear Mattress, released on July 8, has identified 67 degrees Fahrenheit as the temperature most Americans associate with optimal sleep conditions. The findings, shared in an August 4 news release, highlight how this temperature is perceived as ideal for falling asleep faster and staying asleep longer. While the national average of 67°F is consistent with the study’s conclusions, regional variations in preferred sleep temperatures were also noted. Massachusetts emerged as the coldest sleeping state, with an average of 63.2°F, while Hawaii recorded the highest temperature at 69.5°F. The study attributes these differences to regional climate patterns, emphasizing that geographic factors significantly influence what Americans consider comfortable. The research, which surveyed over 2,000 adults across all 50 states, aimed to explore how geography and generational trends shape sleep habits. By mapping sleep comfort, temperature preferences, and bedtime behaviors, the study sought to understand the interplay between environmental conditions and personal routines. The findings contrast with a 2021 Consumer Reports survey, which found that the average thermostat setting for Americans during both day and night was around 71°F. Regional variations in this average were also observed, with Southerners reporting a preference for 72°F during the day and Northeasterners favoring 70°F. Notably, no participant with central air conditioning indicated a willingness to set the temperature above 76°F during summer months, underscoring the practical limits of comfort in warmer climates. The study’s insights into sleep preferences extend beyond temperature.#hawaii #department_of_energy #massachusetts #bear_mattress #consumer_reports

Supreme Court Overturns Hawaii's Gun Ban on Public Property The U.S. Supreme Court ruled on Thursday that Hawaii’s law prohibiting firearms on private property open to the public—unless the owner explicitly permits them—is unconstitutional. The 6-3 decision, split along ideological lines, marked a significant shift in the interpretation of Second Amendment rights following the 2022 Bruen ruling, which established a historical test for evaluating gun regulations. The majority, led by conservative justices, argued that the law violated the constitutional right to bear arms for self-defense, while dissenters criticized the ruling as an overreach that prioritized gun rights over public safety and property protections. In the majority opinion, Justice Samuel Alito emphasized that the law “hobbles what the Second Amendment protects,” framing it as an undue burden on individuals’ right to carry firearms in public spaces. He cited the Bruen standard, which requires modern gun regulations to align with historical practices at the time of the Constitution’s ratification. Alito rejected Hawaii’s attempt to justify the law by referencing 19th-century statutes, such as an 1865 Louisiana law that restricted firearm possession on private property without consent. He called these laws “tainted artifacts” linked to the Black Codes, which historically targeted African American rights, and dismissed Hawaii’s reliance on them as invalid. The dissenting opinion, authored by Justice Sonia Sotomayor and joined by Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, argued that the majority had “manipulated” the Bruen precedent to justify a broad interpretation of gun rights.#hawaii #us_supreme_court #samuel_alito #sonia_sotomayor #clarence_thomas

Supreme Court Overturns Hawaii's 'Vampire Rule' in Landmark Gun Rights Ruling The U.S. Supreme Court delivered a sweeping victory for gun rights on Thursday, striking down Hawaii's controversial "vampire rule" that required concealed-carry permit holders to obtain explicit permission from property owners before bringing firearms into public businesses. In a 6-3 decision, the court ruled that the law violated the Second Amendment, marking a significant shift in the legal landscape of gun regulation. The ruling, which overturned a previous decision by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, centered on the case Wolford v. Lopez, where the state’s law was challenged by a plaintiff seeking to carry a firearm for self-defense. Justice Samuel Alito, writing for the majority, declared that Hawaii’s law “violates the constitutional right to keep and bear arms.” He emphasized that the law imposed an undue burden on lawful concealed-carry permit holders, subjecting them to criminal liability for routine activities such as visiting a gas station, pharmacy, or grocery store. Alito illustrated the law’s impact through a hypothetical scenario involving Jaime Caetano, a woman who sought to carry a firearm after facing threats from an abusive ex-partner. According to the ruling, unless establishments displayed a “Guns Welcome” sign or provided written/verbal permission, Caetano could face legal consequences for exercising her right to self-defense. The court rejected Hawaii’s argument that its unique cultural and historical context justified the restrictions. The state had previously cited its “spirit of Aloha” and an 1865 Louisiana law from the post-Civil War Black Codes as evidence of a historical tradition supporting such regulations.#supreme_court #hawaii #samuel_alito #jaime_caetano #wolford_v_lopez

Supreme Court Overturns Hawaii Gun Law The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday invalidated a Hawaii law that prohibited individuals from carrying concealed firearms onto private property open to the public, marking a significant victory for gun rights advocates. The ruling, delivered in a 6-to-3 decision, centered on the interpretation of the Second Amendment and its application to state regulations governing firearm possession. The case, which originated from a challenge to Hawaii’s concealed-carry restrictions, was the latest in a series of high-profile rulings addressing the scope of constitutional protections for gun ownership. The contested law required gun owners to obtain explicit permission from property owners before carrying a firearm onto premises such as grocery stores, coffee shops, and gas stations that are otherwise accessible to the public. The Supreme Court’s conservative majority held that this regulation violated the Second Amendment’s guarantee of the right to bear arms for self-defense. Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr., writing for the majority, emphasized that the law “hobbles what the Second Amendment protects” by imposing an undue burden on individuals’ ability to carry firearms in public spaces. He argued that the regulation failed to meet the constitutional standard established in the 2022 New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen decision, which requires laws to align with the nation’s historical tradition of firearm regulation. The majority’s reasoning drew on the Bruen ruling, which redefined the legal framework for evaluating gun laws by requiring courts to assess whether a regulation is consistent with the Second Amendment’s core purpose of enabling individuals to carry arms for self-defense.#supreme_court #hawaii #ketanji_brown_jackson #samuel_alito_jr #second_amendment

Gilad Janklowicz, legendary Bodies in Motion fitness coach, dies at 71 Gilad Janklowicz, the iconic fitness coach known for his televised workout programs and his role in shaping the home-fitness movement, has passed away at the age of 71. Janklowicz, who resided in Hawaii, was recently engaged in advanced discussions with Sport 5, an Israeli television network, to develop new fitness content for American audiences. The project aimed to highlight Israel’s natural landscapes while featuring Israeli women participating in workouts, mirroring the format of his earlier programs. Filming was set to commence in October, marking a potential comeback for the fitness icon. Janklowicz’s career began in high school, where he excelled in track and field, eventually becoming Israel’s decathlon champion and record holder. His athletic achievements led to a stint as a fitness officer in the Israeli military. In 1976, he relocated to California with aspirations of competing in the Olympics, but a severe Achilles tendon injury in 1978 derailed his Olympic dreams. This setback redirected his path, prompting him to pursue film studies at UCLA while teaching fitness classes at Los Angeles studios. This dual focus laid the foundation for his future success in both fitness instruction and media. By the 1980s, Janklowicz had become a prominent figure in the televised workout era, renowned for his dynamic approach to fitness. His most celebrated program, Bodies in Motion, launched in 1983 and was filmed against the scenic backdrop of Hawaii. The show’s success extended beyond the United States, with broadcasts on Sport 5 in Israel becoming a cornerstone of the country’s home-fitness culture during the 1980s and 1990s.#hawaii #gilad_janklowicz #bodies_in_motion #sport_5 #masada

Jason Momoa Gets Emotional About Hawaii Flooding Tragedy, Says Family Forced to Flee Jason Momoa shared a heartfelt message on Instagram Stories about the devastating flooding in Hawaii, expressing his concern for the affected communities. The actor, 46, revealed that he and his family were staying near O’ahu’s North Shore when sudden flash flooding forced them to evacuate. He described the situation as chaotic, noting that their power went out, prompting them to leave the area. “We got my family with me. We got out of the North Shore … our power went off,” Momoa said. “We’re safe for now, but there’s a lot of people who weren’t, so we’re sending all our love.” Momoa emphasized the severity of the situation, calling the North Shore “pretty gnarly right now” and urging people to stay safe. His post included a caption detailing the impact of the floods, stating, “These past weeks have been heavy. The storms, the flooding, the constant rain across O’ahu have affected so many of our people, especially those already facing hardship.” He highlighted the struggles of displaced families, struggling communities, and unhoused neighbors, adding, “That’s what aloha is. It’s showing up for each other when it matters most.” The O’ahu Department of Emergency Management had previously warned residents to evacuate the area as the flooding worsened. Governor Josh Green confirmed that hundreds of people had been rescued, with the storm’s damage potentially exceeding $1 billion. “This is going to have a very serious consequence for us as a state,” Green said at a news conference. He described the flooding as the worst the state had seen in over 20 years, underscoring the scale of the crisis. Momoa’s band, ÖOF TATATÁ, had planned a performance in O’ahu but rescheduled their gig to focus on supporting the affected communities.#josh_green #hawaii #north_shore #oahu #jason_momoa

Visuals show the damaging aftermath of severe flooding in Hawaii Severe flooding and damaging winds have left a trail of destruction across Hawaii, prompting evacuation orders, over 200 rescues, widespread power outages, and damage estimates exceeding $1 billion, officials reported. The storm, which struck in early March 2026, has left many residents grappling with the loss of homes and the uncertainty of rebuilding. "Like everybody and anybody, I’m grateful that so far everybody’s alive, but I recognize the fact that a lot of homes have been destroyed," said Blangiardi, per the outlet. He added that many lives will be upended by the challenges ahead, urging communities to "dig in" and support one another. The flooding followed a series of low-pressure systems, known as kona lows or kona storms, a common winter phenomenon in Hawaii. These storms typically affect the leeward sides of the islands, which are usually sheltered from tradewinds and heavy rainfall, according to Steven Businger, a meteorology professor at the University of Hawaii. The recent storms brought intense rains and damaging winds, overwhelming infrastructure and causing significant disruption. Hawaii Gov. Josh Green addressed residents Sunday night, March 22, stating that state operations would resume amid ongoing recovery efforts. Public schools will reopen, though those damaged by the storm will remain closed. "Throughout this storm, we saw neighbors helping neighbors, communities stepping up, and our emergency teams working tirelessly to keep everyone safe," Green said. He expressed gratitude to essential workers and residents for their resilience and solidarity during the crisis. The storm’s impact has highlighted the vulnerability of Hawaii’s infrastructure to extreme weather events, raising concerns about long-term preparedness.#josh_green #hawaii #kona_storms #blangiardi #university_of_hawaii

Catastrophic flooding in Hawaii as Oahu faces evacuations, dam fears Catastrophic flooding has struck Hawaii, with Oahu facing urgent evacuations and fears of a dam collapse. The state is experiencing its worst flooding in two decades, as relentless rain and damaging winds from back-to-back storms have caused widespread destruction. Authorities warned that the situation poses a significant threat to residents and infrastructure, with emergency measures in place to protect lives. The flooding, driven by kona storms—Hawaii’s winter cyclones—has led to severe water levels, damaged roads, and the risk of a dam bursting. On March 20, thousands were evacuated from areas including Haleʻiwa and Waialua after officials issued an alert stating the 120-year-old dam in Central Oahu was at "imminent risk of failure." While the dam did not collapse, the warning prompted immediate action, with residents urged to "LEAVE NOW." Governor Josh Green emphasized that no deaths or missing persons had been reported, but the scale of the crisis was unprecedented since the early 2000s. Rescue efforts have been underway, with over 200 people saved from flooded areas and approximately 10 hospitalized for hypothermia. Green described the flooding as a "major threat" to the state, highlighting the extensive damage to homes, roads, schools, airports, and a hospital on Maui. Officials estimated the total damage could reach $1 billion, surpassing the $85 million in losses from the 2004 Manoa Flood. The current crisis is linked to a series of kona storms, which are rare but powerful winter weather systems that typically affect the leeward sides of the islands. These storms, characterized by heavy rainfall and strong winds, have brought record-breaking precipitation.#hawaii #wahiawa_dam #oahu #kona_storms #manoa_flood

Jason Momoa Forced to Evacuate as Devastating Storm Hits Hawaii Jason Momoa has evacuated the North Shore of Oahu after severe storms caused widespread damage across Hawaii. The actor, who has lived most of his life on the island, shared updates on his Instagram account, stating that he and his family left the area as the storm intensified. "We’re safe for now, but there’s a lot of people who weren’t," he said, expressing concern for those affected. His posts highlighted the ongoing crisis, urging followers to support relief efforts for communities impacted by the flooding and destruction. Hawaii is currently facing its most severe weather event in two decades, with damages already surpassing $1 billion. The relentless storms have battered the mid-Pacific archipelago for two weeks, leading to catastrophic flooding and infrastructure damage. Oahu’s North Shore, a region Momoa has called home since childhood, has been particularly hard-hit. Officials issued evacuation orders for nearly 5,500 residents, citing the risk of a 120-year-old dam in Honolulu failing. Over 230 people have been rescued as the storm continues to wreak havoc. Momoa, who previously advocated for Maui after wildfires devastated the island in 2023, reiterated his commitment to supporting Hawaii during this crisis. In a social media post, he described the situation as "heavy," emphasizing the struggles of families displaced by the storms and the challenges faced by unhoused individuals. He encouraged his nearly 17 million followers to donate to relief efforts, writing, "The storms, the flooding, the constant rain across O’ahu have affected so many of our people, especially those already facing hardship." The storm system has caused unprecedented destruction, with reports of widespread power outages and damaged homes.#hawaii #north_shore #oahu #jason_momoa #hurricane

Over 5,500 people told to evacuate floods on Oahu's North Shore Muddy floodwaters from severe rains inundated streets, pushed homes off their foundations, swallowed vehicles and prompted evacuation orders for thousands of residents in towns north of Honolulu on Friday as officials warned of the possible failure of a 120-year-old dam. Emergency sirens blared along Oahu’s North Shore, where rising waters damaged homes in a community world-renowned for its surfing. Honolulu officials told residents Friday morning to leave the area downstream of Wahiawa dam — long known to be vulnerable — saying it was “at risk of imminent failure.” More than 230 people were rescued as heavy rains pummeled the Hawaiian island of Oahu and triggered the worst flooding the island has seen in 20 years, inflicting what the governor said could top $1 billion in damage. Water levels have been receding at the dam that authorities warned could fail but that could change if more rain falls. In less than 24 hours, water at the dam went from 79 feet to 84 feet — just six feet shy of what it can handle, authorities said. No deaths were reported and no one was unaccounted for, Gov. Josh Green said at a news conference. About 10 people were taken to a hospital with hypothermia, he said. Crews searched by air and by water for people who had been stranded — efforts that were hampered by people flying personal drones to get images of the flooding, he said. Dozens — if not hundreds — of homes had been damaged but officials have not been able to fully assess the destruction, Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi said in an afternoon news conference. Some 5,500 people were under evacuation orders. “There’s no question that the damage done thus far has been catastrophic,” he said.#hawaii #wahiawa_dam #oahu #dole_food_company #honolulu

Hawaii storms have caused over $1 billion in damage, according to the state governor Hawaii's recent storms have inflicted more than $1 billion in damages, officials reported, following two consecutive storms that dumped up to 50 inches of rain on parts of the state. Murky floodwaters have submerged sections of Oahu, with officials warning that the flooding is the worst since 2004. Governor Josh Green confirmed that over 230 people were rescued during the crisis, though no fatalities have been officially recorded. Green described the situation as chaotic, noting that entire camps were trapped by rising waters and that the coast guard had to pull people from debris in the ocean. He emphasized the federal government’s support, stating that the White House is in constant communication with his office and that officials in Washington are "very supportive." While some evacuation and flash flood warnings were lifted on Oahu on Sunday, other areas of the state remain under threat. The Hawaii Department of Transportation reported that part of the Kuihelani Highway on Maui was temporarily closed due to fast-moving water but had reopened by Sunday. Rockfalls were also reported on other roadways across the island. Green warned that the full extent of the damage has not yet been assessed and urged residents to remain cautious. "There's still major flooding all over the place, do not drive through deep water," he said. Maui County is anticipating eight to 10 inches of rain in the coming days, and he advised against boating between islands as the storm continues. The Hawaii National Guard is stationed at the 120-year-old Wahiawa dam to monitor water levels after officials feared it could overflow, prompting evacuations of nearby residents. Water levels at the dam stabilized over the weekend.#white_house #hawaii #governor_josh_green #maui #wahiawa

Arkansas Dominates Hawai'i in NCAA Tournament Opener Arkansas delivered a commanding performance in its NCAA Tournament debut, overwhelming Hawai’i with an explosive start and securing a 97-78 victory in the opening round. The Razorbacks surged ahead with an 11-0 run early in the game, setting the tone for a dominant display that saw them maintain a double-digit lead throughout the contest. The win marks Arkansas’ 12th consecutive victory of the season and extends their perfect record under Coach Calipari to 17-0 when the team records 20 or more assists, a feat achieved with 26 in this game. Darius Acuff Jr. led the charge with 24 points and seven rebounds, while freshman Meleek Thomas contributed 21 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. The duo’s combined efforts made them the first freshman pair in NCAA Tournament history to reach at least 20 points and five assists in a single game. Acuff also set a new school record for single-season assists by a freshman, surpassing Kareem Reid’s previous mark with 223. His 781 points this season placed him just five points behind Todd Day’s all-time leading total of 786. Trevon Brazile joined the milestone club by reaching 1,000 career points, now sitting at 1,013 for Arkansas. With one year remaining at Missouri, Brazile’s career total stands at 1,164. The Razorbacks’ offensive firepower was evident from the outset, as they built an 11-point lead in the first four minutes before Hawai’i managed its first basket. The freshman duo of Acuff and Thomas accounted for nine of Arkansas’ 11 points in the opening run, and the lead expanded to 19 points before the Warriors began to chip away. Despite Hawai’i’s efforts to close the gap, Arkansas maintained control, ending the first half on an 8-0 run highlighted by dunks from Billy Richmond III, Malique Ewin, and Brazile.#arkansas #darius_acuff_jr #hawaii #calipari #meleek_thomas

Chuck Norris Hospitalized After Medical Emergency Chuck Norris was hospitalized in Hawaii following a medical emergency on the island of Kauai, according to sources with direct knowledge. The incident occurred within the last 24 hours, though the specific nature of the emergency remains undisclosed. Despite the situation, Norris was reportedly in good spirits and engaged in light-hearted banter with a friend who was on the phone with him. The hospitalization followed a day of training on the island, where Norris was seen in good health and humor. However, his family later announced his passing, stating he had died at the age of 86. The timeline suggests the medical emergency occurred swiftly, leading to his hospitalization and subsequent death. The news of Norris's death has sparked widespread reactions, with fans and colleagues mourning the loss of the iconic martial arts legend. His family’s announcement underscores the suddenness of his passing, highlighting the unexpected nature of the event. Other headlines in the same section include reports of Shia LaBeouf’s heated encounter with police in New Orleans, Taylor Frankie Paul’s Bachelorette date activities, and updates on Channing Tatum’s shoulder surgery following a ski accident. Meanwhile, Josh Hartnett’s hospitalization after a car crash involving Canadian police and Josh Duggar’s brother facing charges for alleged sexual activity with a minor also received attention. The mix of news highlights the diverse range of events covered, with Norris’s hospitalization and death serving as a central focus. The article’s structure reflects the chaotic nature of news aggregation, blending multiple stories into a single feed.#hawaii #chuck_norris #kauai #hospitalization #medical_emergency

Winter Storm Continues To Drop Snow In Minneapolis A major winter storm is sweeping across the Midwest, bringing record snowfall to parts of Wisconsin and Michigan, while severe weather is disrupting multiple regions of the United States. The National Weather Service has issued warnings of dangerous conditions, including whiteout visibility, hazardous icing, and potential power outages. In Minnesota, the storm is expected to deliver up to 18 inches of snow, with blizzard-like conditions developing due to strong winds and heavy precipitation. The storm, known as Winter Storm Iona, has already caused significant disruptions. In Minnesota, the Minnesota National Guard has been activated to assist with emergency operations as the state prepares for the worst. Governor Tim Walz signed an executive order to deploy the Guard, citing the severity of the storm. A winter storm warning is in effect for central and southern Minnesota, with snowfall forecasts reaching 12 to 18 inches in the metro area. Wind gusts of up to 45 mph are expected, which could create blizzard conditions, particularly overnight and into Sunday morning. Meanwhile, in Hawaii, a powerful Kona low has led to catastrophic flooding, with over 65,000 residents still without power. Torrential rains have caused widespread damage, including a home in Lao Valley being completely ripped from its foundation. Flash flood warnings remain active across multiple islands as the storm continues to dump heavy rainfall. Governor Josh Green has issued an emergency proclamation to address the crisis. The storm’s impact extends beyond the Midwest. In the Desert Southwest, a heat wave is pushing temperatures to 100 degrees or higher, with some areas experiencing highs in the 90s and even triple digits.#hawaii #winter_storm_iona #minnesota_national_guard #governor_tim_walz #kona_low

States Are Pursuing an End to Twice-a-Year Clock Changes States across the United States are increasingly pushing for the elimination of the twice-a-year clock changes associated with daylight saving time. This movement has gained momentum as lawmakers and citizens debate the potential benefits and drawbacks of maintaining the practice. Proponents argue that ending the time changes would reduce confusion, improve public health by stabilizing sleep patterns, and save energy by extending daylight hours during the winter months. Opponents, however, contend that the practice has historical roots and that its removal could disrupt agricultural schedules and transportation systems. The push to abolish daylight saving time has been bolstered by recent studies suggesting that the biannual adjustments contribute to health issues such as increased heart attack risks and sleep disorders. Advocacy groups, including the Sunshine Protection Act coalition, have called for a permanent shift to standard time year-round, citing economic and health benefits. However, the U.S. Department of Transportation and other federal agencies have expressed concerns about the potential impact on energy consumption and infrastructure. In recent years, several states have introduced legislation to either permanently adopt daylight saving time or revert to standard time. For example, Hawaii and Arizona have long opted out of the practice, while Florida and Idaho have passed laws to remain on daylight saving time permanently. The debate has also sparked discussions about the role of federal versus state authority in regulating such a widespread practice. The issue remains contentious, with political and cultural divides shaping the conversation.#daylight_saving_time #arizona #sunshine_protection_act_coalition #us_department_of_transportation #hawaii