Time lapse infrared movies of the Pacific Ocean with Tropical Storm Three-c forming south-southeast of Hawaii Island. Images courtesy of NRL Monterey

5:30 p.m. Hawaii County Civil Defense weather update

The National weather Service is closely monitoring Tropical Depression Three-c located approximately 570 miles south-southeast of Hilo and moving west0northwest at 15 mph with maximum sustained winds at 35 mph. Tropical Depression Three-c is expected to continue to strengthen and is forecast to become a tropical storm on Friday (Aug 21).

Currently no watches or warnings are in effect and the Civil Defense Agency will be monitoring the system and maintaining close communications with the National Weather Service.

Please monitor your local radio broadcasts and this website for updates. The public is reminded that hurricane season for Hawaii runs from June through November and everyone is encouraged to plan and prepare early for all hazards that pose a threat to our community.

Full earth image taken at 5 p.m. HST Thursday, August 20, 2015. Photo courtesy of NOAA-NASA GOES Project