Here’s a map that shows just how lucky Hawaii has been when it comes to hurricanes and tropical storms, courtesy of the Weather Underground and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association.

Hawaii hurricane history

Tropical storms and hurricanes crisscrossing the Pacific since 1949 have missed the Hawaiian Islands more often than not.

NOAA

As you can see, the state has only received two direct hits from hurricanes since 1949, although that hasn’t prevented other storms from wreaking havoc here.

For instance, in 1982 Hurricane Iwa became one Hawaii’s most devastating hurricanes, causing hundreds of millions of dollars of damage, even though it skirted the island of Kauai.

The Weather Underground provided a brief summary of Hawaii’s hurricane history Thursday along with updates on Tropical Storm Ana, which weakened Wednesday night but still poses a threat.

You can also play with NOAA’s Historical Hurricane Tracks tool to build your own storm maps.

 

 

Support Civil Beat during the season of giving.

As a small nonprofit newsroom, our mission is powered by readers like you. But did you know that less than 1% of readers donate to Civil Beat?

Give today and support local journalism that helps to inform, empower and connect.

About the Author