Residents urged to prepare for heavy rain and strong winds this weekend
Category: Climate & Environment
As Tropical Storm Lala approaches Hawaii, a Hurricane Warning is now in effect for the Big Island, with the storm expected to strengthen into a Category 1 hurricane by Saturday. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings across the state, urging residents to prepare for potentially dangerous weather conditions.
As of 5 a.m. on August 14, Lala was located about 420 miles east-southeast of Hilo, moving west-northwest at approximately 12 mph, with maximum sustained winds near 60 mph. The storm is expected to pass near the Big Island on Saturday, bringing with it heavy rainfall and strong winds that could lead to hazardous conditions across the islands.
The NWS upgraded the Tropical Storm Watch for Maui County to a Tropical Storm Warning early Friday morning, anticipating that tropical storm conditions would develop within 36 hours. Oʻahu and Kauaʻi Counties are also under a Tropical Storm Watch, which indicates that tropical storm conditions are possible in the next 36 to 48 hours. The core of Lala is forecasted to reach the Big Island on Saturday and then move south of the smaller islands on Sunday.
Forecasters predict that Lala will strengthen as it approaches Hawaii, with the potential for hurricane conditions on the Big Island. Winds atop and on the windward sides of slopes and mountains could be up to 30% stronger than the near-surface winds indicated in advisories. Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 205 miles from the center, creating a wide area of impact.
The storm is expected to produce rainfall totals of 8 to 12 inches across Maui and the Big Island, with isolated areas on the Big Island potentially receiving up to 25 inches. This heavy rainfall raises concerns about life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly in steep terrain. The NWS has issued a Flood Watch for Maui and the Big Island, warning that rivers and tributaries may rapidly overflow their banks.
The approach of Tropical Storm Lala highlights the vulnerability of Hawaii to severe weather events. Hurricanes directly hitting Hawaii are rare, but they can cause substantial damage when they do occur. The last hurricane to make direct landfall in Hawaii was Category 4 Hurricane Iniki in 1992. Residents are reminded to take precautions, as the storm could bring heavy rains and dangerous surf conditions.
Officials are preparing for potential impacts, including evacuations and road closures, as the storm progresses. The Kauaʻi Emergency Management Agency has advised residents and visitors to monitor forecasts closely and be prepared to take action if flood watches or warnings are issued.
As Lala continues on its path, the NWS anticipates that impacts will begin for the eastern end of the state on Friday night, with conditions deteriorating through the weekend. The agency has also issued a High Surf Warning for the east-facing shores of the Big Island and Maui, with surf heights expected to increase from 8 to 12 feet to 15 to 20 feet by Saturday.
In preparation for the storm, crews in Kauaʻi have begun storm preparations, including clearing ditches and cleaning drains to mitigate flooding risks. Emergency plans should include the potential for major flooding from heavy rain, especially for those in flood-prone areas. The public is advised to heed any evacuation orders and to prepare for possible power outages and communications disruptions due to high winds.
| Island | Warning Status | Expected Rainfall | Wind Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big Island | Hurricane Warning | 8-12 inches (up to 25 inches in some areas) | Hurricane conditions expected |
| Maui | Tropical Storm Warning | 8-12 inches | Tropical storm conditions expected |
| Kauaʻi | Tropical Storm Watch | 3-6 inches (locally higher) | Tropical storm conditions possible |
| Oʻahu | Tropical Storm Watch | 2-4 inches | Tropical storm conditions possible |
Residents across the main Hawaiian Islands should remain vigilant as Lala approaches, with the next complete advisory from the NWS expected around 11 a.m. HST on Saturday. The situation is dynamic, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available. With preparations underway and warnings in effect, the safety of residents and visitors remains the top priority.
As the storm approaches, officials are reminding everyone to stay informed and to have emergency plans in place. The combination of heavy rains, strong winds, and dangerous surf conditions poses a serious threat to life and property. The community is urged to take this storm seriously and to act accordingly to protect themselves and their loved ones.