The Big Island of Hawaii is experiencing heavy rainfall as Tropical Storm Lala approaches with hurricane-force winds. Beginning Saturday, the storm has started affecting the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago, and meteorologists predict it could intensify into a hurricane as it nears landfall.
U.S. officials are warning of potential flooding and other hazardous conditions, urging residents to take precautions. Governor Josh Green said in a video message Friday that Lala is expected to strengthen into a Category 1 hurricane before reaching the Big Island. He emphasized the likelihood of strong winds, heavy rain, flash flooding, and dangerous surf across the state over the weekend.
The U.S. National Hurricane Center has issued a hurricane warning for the Big Island, which has not experienced a direct hurricane landfall in 155 years. As of the latest advisory at 15:00 GMT, hurricane-force winds are expected late Saturday on the Big Island, while tropical-storm-force winds have already begun.
Forecasters predict rainfall of 8 to 12 inches on Maui and the lower elevations of the Big Island, with other islands receiving 4 to 6 inches. Higher elevations on the Big Island could see up to 25 inches, increasing the risk of landslides, downed power lines, fallen trees, and other hazards.
Before the storm arrives, authorities recommend residents stay indoors and avoid going outside during severe weather. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi urged people to complete preparations by Friday, rather than waiting until conditions worsen.
The last major hurricane to hit Hawaii was Hurricane Iniki in 1992, which devastated Kauai, killing six people and causing billions of dollars in damage. Hurricanes in the Pacific are not rare, but landfalls in Hawaii are relatively uncommon due to the small island area and the climate characteristics of the surrounding ocean.
Lala arrives as scientists forecast a strong El Nino will bring extreme weather to the western United States in the coming months. El Nino is a global climate phenomenon that occurs when surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific are warmer than normal, creating conditions for stronger storms.
