(Kauai Now) Hurricane Dora remains a Category 4 storm as it rapidly moves at 23 mph west across the Central Pacific with maximum sustained winds of 130 mph with higher gusts — and on a track well south of the Hawaiian Islands.

As of 5 a.m. on Monday, the center of Hurricane Dora was located near latitude 12.4 North, longitude 148.3 West, which is 675 miles southeast of Hilo, according to the National Hurricane Center.

While the storm is well south, forecasters say breezy easterly trade winds are forecast to become strong and gusty on Kauaʻi.

The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Warning for Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau that is in effect through 6 a.m. on Wednesday. East winds of 30 to 45 mph are forecast, with gusts over 65 mph.

The National Weather Service also has issued a Red Fire Warning from 6 a.m. Monday to 6 a.m. Wednesday for leeward areas of Kauaʻi.

A Red Flag Warning means critical fire weather conditions are either occurring or will occur shortly. The combination of dry fuels, strong and gusty trade winds, and low relative humidity levels could produce extreme fire behavior. A Red Flag Warning does not predict new fire starts.

Kauaʻi residents should secure outdoor items and avoid any outdoor activities that involve the use of fire or a fire ignition source. Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are possible. Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

Outside of a few windward showers Monday morning, very dry air arriving from the east will limit rainfall chances through Wednesday. A return of a more typical trade wind pattern is anticipated later in the week through the weekend, according to the National Weather Service.

Kauai Now, August 7, 2023