Tropical Storm Lala intensified early Saturday, affecting Hawaii’s Big Island with heavy rain and strong winds. Forecasts suggest the storm could become a hurricane or at least bring substantial wind damage as it nears landfall. The National Hurricane Center issued a rare hurricane warning, a situation the island has not faced for 155 years.
Predictions indicate elevations could receive up to 25 inches (63.5 centimeters) of rain, posing significant mudslide risks, particularly in remote areas where residents live in makeshift homes. Authorities urged these residents to seek safe shelter promptly.
Governor Josh Green described Lala as an extensive storm, with tropical storm-force winds spreading up to 220 miles (350 kilometers) outward. The islands of Oahu and Kauai may experience these conditions by Sunday morning. Officials anticipate potential flooding and wind-driven wildfires.
The Big Island remains under a hurricane warning, while Maui County—comprising Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and Kahoolawe—faces a tropical storm warning. Oahu and Kauai County, covering the islands of Kauai and Niihau, are similarly warned.
The National Hurricane Center noted that wind speeds could exceed near-surface levels by 30% over mountains and slopes, reaching hurricane strength in higher areas. Historical data from a University of Hawaii scientist reveals that a Category 3 hurricane impacted the island in 1871.
Current forecasts have Lala approaching close to the southern tip of the Big Island, according to meteorologist Vanessa Almanza in Honolulu. Regardless of direct landfall, preparations were underway as shelters opened and events canceled. Almanza emphasized that destruction does not require a direct hit, with peripheral impacts often significant.
The forecast includes 8 to 12 inches (20.3 to 30.5 centimeters) of rainfall for Maui and lower Big Island elevations, and 4 to 6 inches (10.2 to 15.2 centimeters) for other areas, accompanied by warnings of life-threatening flooding and mudslides. Ocean conditions could result in dangerous surf and rip currents.
As of 5 a.m., Lala was positioned 110 miles (175 kilometers) southeast of South Point, Hawaii, with sustained winds of 65 mph (100 kph), moving west-northwest at 13 mph (20 kph).
Preparedness and Risks
State Representative Jeanné Kapela moved to the Big Island to support her constituents, stressing storm seriousness. Southern areas, known for agriculture and affordable living, could face adverse effects. Kapela advised individuals with vulnerable housing to seek family or friends for shelter.
Many parts of Hawaii still recover from March’s damaging floods, noted Kapela. Flood worries extend to growers like those on Oahu’s North Shore, highlighted by Hawaii Farm Bureau’s Brian Miyamoto.
Holualoa’s coffee farmer Bruce Corker described calm conditions but expressed concern over potential stream flooding and high winds from Lala.
Fire and Weather Concerns
Almanza mentioned dry conditions heightening fire risks, with past incidents, including Lahaina’s extreme 2023 fires, serving as a reminder.
Kauai experienced Hurricane Iniki in 1992, devastating in an El Nino year similar to 2023. Steven Businger of the University of Hawaii recalled Iniki’s $3 billion damage, loss of lives, and unpredictable storm behavior.
Reporters, including Alexa St. John, contributed to reporting efforts.
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