Hurricane Lala weakened to a tropical storm on Sunday after bypassing Hawaii without hitting land, but it continued to unleash strong gusts on the Big Island. The region was anticipating nearly one meter of rainfall on the high windward slopes, causing rivers to swell and posing a threat of mudslides.
Tropical storm conditions were extending from Maui to Oahu and then Kauai, with the National Hurricane Center cautioning about the stronger winds at higher elevations compared to surface levels. The Big Island faced powerful waves along the coast as Lala slowly moved through, with winds causing trees to sway and heavy rainfall leading to fast-flowing streams.
Over 130,000 households were without electricity on Sunday morning across Hawaii’s main islands, with three hospitals operating on backup generators, as reported by Gov. Josh Green. Tragically, one fatality was recorded in a car accident on the Big Island’s South Point, and 19 roofs were lost during the storm.
A search-and-rescue operation involving Civil Defense, the National Guard, and Coast Guard was initiated following reports of flash floods displacing several homes in Na’alehu and Wai’ohinu. The challenging conditions of rushing water, debris, and darkness hindered rescue efforts, according to Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda.
Tropical storm warnings were in place for multiple islands as Lala progressed westward, raising concerns of severe flooding and potential wildfires due to strong winds. Lala, with sustained winds of 110 km/h, was located about 170 kilometers northwest of Kailua-Kona and 160 kilometers south of Honolulu, moving at 24 km/h.
Forecasters expected Lala to regain hurricane strength later in the week after moving away from the island chain. The Big Island, especially areas like Mauna Kea, faced significant rainfall, which could lead to hazardous conditions for residents living on steep slopes.
Residents took precautions, with shelters opened, events canceled, and ranchers advised to secure livestock in open pastures. Local residents like Bobby Camara and Mike Caputo prepared for potential flash flooding and fallen trees, acknowledging the risks associated with the storm.
Warnings were issued across the region as Lala intensified into a hurricane before weakening back to a tropical storm. The history of severe storms in Hawaii, including the devastating impact of Hurricane Iniki in 1992 on Kauai, served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of such weather events. The state was still recovering from significant flooding earlier in the year, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by residents.
