Image Source: Hawaii News Now
Hurricane weather is expected to intensify across Hawaii as Tropical Storm Lala strengthens and moves toward Hawaii Island. Forecasters say the storm could become a hurricane before approaching the southern portion of the Big Island on Saturday morning, bringing dangerous winds, heavy rainfall, flooding and coastal hazards.
The overall forecast track remains largely unchanged, according to the latest information from Hawaii News Now, the National Hurricane Center and the National Weather Service. Conditions are expected to worsen early Saturday on Hawaii Island before tropical storm impacts spread to Maui County, Oahu and Kauai County.
Urgent Hurricane Weather Threatens Hawaii Island
Hawaii Island is under a Hurricane Warning, meaning hurricane conditions are expected somewhere within the warning area. Emergency preparations should be completed as quickly as possible because outside work may become dangerous once hurricane-force winds arrive.
Tropical Storm Warnings are in effect for Maui County, including Maui, Lanai, Molokai and Kahoolawe, as well as Oahu, Kauai and Niihau. A Tropical Storm Warning means tropical storm conditions are expected within 36 hours.
- Hawaii Island: Hurricane Warning
- Maui County: Tropical Storm Warning
- Oahu: Tropical Storm Warning
- Kauai County and Niihau: Tropical Storm Warning
- Flood Watch: Hawaii Island and Maui County through late Saturday night
- Flood Watch: Oahu, Kauai and Niihau from Saturday evening through late Sunday night
Powerful Winds and Dangerous Rainfall Forecast
As of 11 p.m. Friday, Lala’s center was about 165 miles from South Point and 375 miles from Honolulu. The storm was moving west-northwest at approximately 13 miles per hour. Maximum sustained winds were near 65 mph, with higher gusts, and tropical-storm-force winds extended outward as far as 220 miles from the center.
The storm is expected to continue west-northwest during the next several days. Lala may slow as it interacts with Hawaii Island’s terrain. After passing near or over the southern Big Island, the system could briefly turn northwest before moving south of the smaller islands through the rest of the weekend.
Rainfall could become one of the storm’s most serious threats. Forecast totals include:
- Hawaii Island: 10 to 20 inches, with isolated totals up to 25 inches
- Maui: 8 to 12 inches
- Other islands: 4 to 6 inches, with maximum amounts near 8 inches
Such rainfall may trigger life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides, especially in steep terrain and areas vulnerable to fast-rising water. Residents should avoid crossing flooded roads and remain alert for changing conditions.
Storm Surge and High Surf Raise Coastal Risks
Storm surge combined with high tide could push water 1 to 3 feet above ground level in normally dry coastal areas. The most significant flooding is expected near the immediate shoreline, where surge will combine with large, dangerous waves.
A High Surf Warning remains in effect through 6 a.m. Sunday for east-facing shores of Hawaii Island, Maui, Molokai and Oahu. Swells are expected to build along eastern exposures and later affect exposed southern shores as Lala passes south of the island chain.
These conditions could create life-threatening surf and rip currents. Beachgoers, swimmers and boaters should stay away from hazardous shorelines and follow guidance from local officials.
First Alert Weather Days Declared
The HNN First Alert Weather Team has declared Saturday and Sunday First Alert Weather Days. Residents across the state are being urged to secure loose outdoor items, review emergency plans and prepare for possible power outages, blocked roads and communication disruptions.
People in flood-prone areas should know evacuation routes and identify safe places to shelter. Families should also keep essential medications, drinking water, food, flashlights, batteries and important documents ready before conditions deteriorate.
Although the forecast track is generally steady, short-term changes remain possible as Lala approaches Hawaii Island. Residents should continue monitoring official forecasts and emergency announcements rather than relying on a single forecast update.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hurricane Weather
When could Lala become a hurricane?
Forecasters expect Tropical Storm Lala to strengthen into a hurricane as it approaches Hawaii Island, potentially by Saturday morning.
Which island is under a Hurricane Warning?
Hawaii Island is under a Hurricane Warning. The rest of the state is under Tropical Storm Warnings, with additional flood and surf alerts in effect.
How much rain could Hawaii Island receive?
Hawaii Island could receive 10 to 20 inches of rain, with locally higher amounts reaching up to 25 inches.
What are the primary dangers from Lala?
The main threats include hurricane-force winds, flash flooding, mudslides, storm surge, dangerous surf and strong rip currents.
What should residents do now?
Residents should finish preparations, secure outdoor items, gather emergency supplies, review evacuation plans and follow instructions from local officials.
