Tropical Storm Lala Threatens Hawaii with Hurricane Potential

The Big Island of Hawaii is currently under threat from Tropical Storm Lala, which is bringing intense wind and rain. Forecasts suggest it might evolve into a hurricane or deliver hurricane-force winds as it nears land. The National Hurricane Center has issued a rare hurricane warning for the island, a situation not seen in 155 years. Higher altitudes might experience up to 25 inches (63.5 cm) of rainfall, potentially leading to life-threatening mudslides, especially in areas with improvised housing. Authorities strongly advise residents to seek safe shelter promptly.

Governor Josh Green emphasized the storm’s magnitude, with tropical storm-force winds extending up to 220 miles (350 km). These winds are anticipated to reach Oahu and Kauai by Sunday morning, increasing the risk of destructive flooding and wildfires. The Big Island has received a hurricane warning, while Maui County (encompassing Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and Kahoolawe) is under a tropical storm warning. Oahu and Kauai County, including Kauai and Niihau, also have tropical storm warnings in place.

Tropical storm force winds extended outward for as much as 220 miles (350 km), and were expected to hit islands of Oahu and Kauai by Sunday morning.

Even if Lala barely misses becoming a hurricane, the NHC warns that wind speeds in mountainous regions could be 30% stronger than those near the surface, suggesting nearly hurricane-force conditions in higher-altitude communities. Historical records from a University of Hawaii study show a Category 3 hurricane hit the northeast corner of the island in 1871. Weather forecaster Vanessa Almanza notes that Lala is predicted to strike close to the southern tip of the Big Island.

Shelters are set to open, and various events have been canceled in anticipation. Almanza points out that significant impacts can occur even without a direct hit, affecting areas beyond the storm’s center. Predicted rainfall expects 8 to 12 inches (20.3 to 30.5 cm) on Maui and low elevations of the Big Island, with 4 to 6 inches (10.2 to 15.2 cm) elsewhere. Life-threatening flooding, mudslides, storm surges, and dangerous ocean conditions are anticipated.

As of early Saturday, Tropical Storm Lala was about 110 miles (175 km) southeast of South Point, Hawaii, with sustained winds of 65 mph (100 kph), moving west-northwest at 13 mph (20 kph). Authorities urge residents to take precautions.

State Representative Jeanné Kapela traveled from Honolulu to the Big Island to support her constituents. She stressed the need for vigilance, especially in remote areas with unpermitted structures. She advised residents questioning their home’s stability to seek shelter with friends or family. Kapela reminded that many areas are still recovering from March’s flooding and stressed the rapid impact heavy rains can have on rural areas.

Farmers like Bruce Corker are concerned about floods and storms affecting agriculture, particularly after this year’s spring floods. Brian Miyamoto from the Hawaii Farm Bureau shared concerns about potential damage on Oahu’s North Shore. Fire risks are elevated due to windy conditions, as noted by forecaster Almanza. The 2023 Maui fire during extreme winds serves as a stark reminder.

Kauai had previously experienced Hurricane Iniki in 1992, a Category 4, during an El Nino year. That storm caused $3 billion in damage and six fatalities, underlining the unpredictability of such weather events. University of Hawaii professor Steven Businger highlighted the historical impact of Hawaii’s last direct hurricane hit in 1992.