Hurricane Warning Issued for Hawaiʻi Island as Tropical Storm Lala Strengthens
Hurricane Warning Issued for Hawaiʻi Island as Tropical Storm Lala Strengthens
US · Published Aug 15, 2026
Tropical Storm Lala, the first named storm of the 2026 Central Pacific season, is forecast to strengthen into a hurricane by August 15, 2026, as it approaches Hawaiʻi Island.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued a Hurricane Warning for Hawaiʻi Island and a Tropical Storm Watch for Maui County.

Impact & Risks

Hawaiʻi Island is expected to experience hurricane conditions by early August 15, with tropical storm conditions possible in Maui County later that day. The NHC warns of storm surge flooding, with water levels reaching 0.3–0.9 m (1–3 feet) above ground in coastal areas. Large waves and heavy surf could cause significant beach erosion and localized flooding. Rainfall totals of up to 635 mm (25 inches) on Hawaiʻi Island and 305 mm (12 inches) in Maui County may lead to flash flooding and rapidly rising streams. Wind impacts are forecast to be strongest on Hawaiʻi Island, with damaging winds possible even if Lala’s center remains offshore.

Related News