TROPICAL STORM FELICIA NEARS HAWAII

Tropical Storm Felicia is nearing Hawaii on 10 August 2009 and is expected to begin affecting the island chain after nightfall. Water levels have already begun to rise around the islands due to the storm swell. The storm, which had reached Category 4 hurricane status, was downgraded to a tropical storm on 9 August and may continue to weaken before making landfall. As of 1200 UTC, Felicia was located approximately 355 mi/570 km east-northeast of Hilo and was moving west at 10 mph/9 kt, with maximum sustained winds at 50 mph/43 kt. A tropical storm watch is in place for Oahu, the Big Island and Maui County, and localized flooding is expected. Authorities have closed beaches on Big Island, Maui and Kaua'i, and other preparations are underway.