The latest forecast, at 11 am Hawaii time, has Flossie still passing just South of the Big Island but it should sling plenty of rain, wind and waves towards the Hilo / Windward shores. I would assume the whole island can expect buckets of rain starting tomorrow morning heading on through the day and possibly into Wednesday. Schools and public buildings will be closed. Airlines, I've heard, will probably be canceling flights or, at least, rerouting people to Oahu. So a backup plan on Oahu might be in order if you still plan on traveling.

Flossie has toned down slightly, with sustained winds running at 125 mph, down from 135 mph earlier in they day. I hope this signals the weakening of the storm. Surf should be big but choppy and sloppy, so, alas, little hope of surfing the legendary deepwater break on Hilo Bay in the 20-foot rollers. Hotels are not changing cancellation policies yet but that could come as flights back up. And, most importantly, let's have a prayer for the folks over in harm's way. Stay dry, stay safe.

—Alex, 08/14/07