“Satellite imagery indicates that Flossie has maintained its current intensity over the past several hours. Deep convection continues near and just north of the low level center. Southwesterly shear just ahead of Flossie along with marginal SSTS and some dry air intrusion is expected to cause Flossie to slowly weaken over the next couple of days. This is in line with all intensity models.

The initial motion estimate is 275 degrees at 20 mph which has changed little over the past several hours. Flossie is expected to slow down slightly on Sunday but continue to move westward south of a ridge of high pressure north of the Hawaiian islands. Almost all of the models show Flossie near the Big Island in about 48 hours. Thus a tropical storm watch has been issued for Maui county and the big island. The official forecast is essentially unchanged from the previous forecast.”

“The National Weather Service has issued a Tropical Storm and Flash Flood Watch for the island of Hawaii. Tropical Storm Flossie is presently located approximately 900 miles East of Hilo and moving West/Northwest at a speed of 18 MPH. In its current track storm conditions to include high winds, high surf and run up as well as heavy rains and possible flooding could begin to affect Hawaii Island by early Monday morning. Currently, Tropical Storm Flossie is presenting with sustained winds of 50mph and stronger gusts as well as heavy rains and possible thunder showers. Campers and residents in shoreline areas are advised to take precautions and to prepare for rising surf conditions and possible storm surge run up. Residents in flood prone areas are also advised to anticipate heavy rains that may cause flooding and take necessary precautions. In addition, storm force winds may cause trees to break or topple. Motorists are advised to exercise caution. Additional messages will be broadcasts as information is made available and the community is advised to monitor local news and weather broadcasts for further updates.”