A worsening storm is battering Hawaii Island, and it is bad news for residents facing widespread power outages, road closures, and property damage.

• Power outages exploded from 3,000 customers this afternoon to 65,000 as wind gusts jumped from 30-40 mph to 70-80 mph.
• Road closures more than doubled to over 30, with flooding, downed power lines, and damaged homes across the island.
• The windward stretch from North Kohala through Waimea, Hamakua, Hilo, and down to Kau is the hardest-hit zone.
• Residents largely stayed home as told, so no rescues were needed for stranded drivers or surfers.
• Power crews cannot work bucket trucks in winds above 35 mph, so restoration is stalled until conditions ease.

Outlook: The storm is now pushing toward South Kona with trees falling, and outages will likely drag on as long as the high winds keep crews grounded.