Tropical Storm Lala brings heavy rain, damaging winds to Hawaii
• Tropical Storm Lala, downgraded from hurricane status, is currently moving west-northwest at 14 mph and was located 140 miles past Kailua-Kona as of 5 a.m. HST on August 16,
• The storm is producing sustained winds of 70 mph, with tropical-storm-force winds extending up to 140 miles from its center. Heavy rainfall of 10 to 17 inches has already been recorded on the eastern side of the Big Island, with additional rainfall of 5 to 10 inches expected across the Big Island and Maui County. The storm is forecast to turn westward later Sunday and continue in a westward motion through Tuesday night, remaining south of the smaller Hawaiian Islands. A high surf advisory is in effect for east-facing shores, with waves reaching 10 to 14 feet. Coastal flooding and beach erosion are possible due to storm surge and high tides.
Impact & Risks
The storm has caused significant impacts across Hawaii, including two homes swept away in Nā‘ālehu due to intense rainfall. Numerous road closures have been reported on the Big Island, and Maui is experiencing damaging winds and heavy rain. Conditions are expected to deteriorate on O‘ahu and Kaua‘i later in the day. Coastal areas face risks of flooding and erosion due to storm surge and high surf. Residents in affected areas should remain vigilant as life-threatening flooding and hazardous conditions persist.
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