Late-season activity is more probable, and there is a higher risk of recurvature toward Hawaii in the late season. Sea-surface temperatures in some areas rose over ten degrees Fahrenheit, which killed phytoplankton and other ocean species, such as fish that could not adapt to the sudden change in climate. Coral populations of the Pacific were affected. Corals in Guam, Vanuatu, Christmas Island, French Polynesia and the Tokelau Islands reported bleaching and death .
Drought conditions take a toll on the farms and ranches of the Big Island of Hawaii.
Drinking water is only a problem in more rural areas of the Big Island where they rely on catchments. Most other areas have well water, which is less sensitive to seasonal droughts. But the droughts cause ecosystem and wildfire problems. They might also increase the cost of municipal water for large users, like golf courses and agriculture, that supplement rainfall with municipal water only as required. Demand has increased in recent years, so less-serious droughts could have greater consequence.