Hurricane Watch Issued for Big Island as Tropical Storm Lala Strengthens
Hurricane Watch Issued for Big Island as Tropical Storm Lala Strengthens
US · Published Aug 13, 2026
Tropical Storm Lala has officially formed and is currently located approximately 705 miles east-southeast of Hilo, Hawaiʻi, moving westward at 10 mph.
The Central Pacific Hurricane Center (CPHC) has issued a Hurricane Watch for the Big Island of Hawaiʻi, indicating that hurricane conditions are possible within the next 48 hours.

Impact & Risks

Residents of the Big Island and surrounding areas should prepare for potentially severe weather conditions, including heavy rainfall, flooding, and mudslides, particularly in steep terrain. Coastal areas may experience storm surges of 1 to 3 feet, accompanied by large waves. Tropical-storm-force winds could be significantly stronger in elevated areas and windward sides of hills and mountains. Life-threatening surf and rip currents are expected to impact east-facing shores starting Friday, spreading westward through the weekend.

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