Image Source: The Weather Channel
Hurricane tracker Hawaii updates show Hurricane Lala lashing the island chain with powerful winds, intense rainfall and dangerous surf. The storm’s center was passing just south of the southernmost point of the Big Island on Saturday, August 16, 2026, while its impacts spread westward toward Maui, Oahu and Kauai.
Lala’s close approach is placing several communities on the storm’s most hazardous side, where winds can push directly toward land and increase the risk of damaging gusts, coastal flooding and rough seas. Residents and visitors should continue monitoring official alerts through Sunday.
Critical Hurricane Tracker Hawaii Update
According to the latest report, the center of Hurricane Lala was moving west-northwest just south of Hawaii’s Big Island. The storm may briefly jog northwest before turning back toward the west-northwest on Sunday.
Lala has become only the fifth hurricane since 1957 to pass within 70 miles of the Big Island. The other storms in this unusual group include Hurricane Hone in 2024, Douglas in 2020, Iselle in 2014 and Kanoa in 1957.
The hurricane’s center path has put the island chain on what meteorologists often call the storm’s “dirty side.” This region can experience the strongest winds and most dangerous coastal effects because the circulation drives wind toward land.
Powerful Winds Damage Trees and Roads
Wind gusts between 50 and 90 mph have been measured across mountainous areas of the Big Island, Maui County and Oahu. A weather instrument atop Mauna Kea recorded a remarkable 154 mph gust early Saturday afternoon. Such extreme readings are common near the summit of the 13,803-foot mountain, where elevation greatly accelerates winds.
The strong weather has already caused trees and power lines to fall, blocking roads in parts of the Big Island. Heavy rain has also closed roads in Hilo and areas south of the city, including Mountain View and Hawaiian Paradise.
Residents should prepare for possible power outages lasting several hours or even a few days. Drivers should avoid flooded roads and remain cautious around weakened trees, downed power lines and debris.
Flooding Rain and Landslides Threaten Hawaii
Rainfall is becoming one of Lala’s most serious threats. Eastern parts of the Big Island and eastern Maui have received 3 to 8 inches of rain, while gauges on some mountain slopes have recorded between 10 and 18 inches so far.
The National Hurricane Center expects 8 to 12 inches of rain across Maui and the Big Island through Sunday. Isolated locations on the Big Island could receive as much as 25 inches.
These totals may trigger life-threatening flash floods and landslides, especially in steep or mountainous areas. Saturated ground can also make trees more likely to topple when strong winds arrive. People living near slopes, streams or known flood zones should be ready to move if local officials issue evacuation instructions.
Hurricane Warnings and Weekend Impacts
- Hurricane warning: The warning remains in effect for the Big Island, where hurricane-force winds are possible through Saturday night.
- Tropical storm warning: Maui County, including Maui, Lanai, Molokai and Kahoolawe, remains under a tropical storm warning. Oahu and Kauai County are also included.
- Wind threat: Gusts above 70 mph remain possible across parts of the island chain through Sunday.
- Coastal flooding: East- and south-facing shores could see water rise 1 to 3 feet above ground on the Big Island and 1 to 2 feet elsewhere, particularly around high tide.
- Surf conditions: Extremely rough surf is expected between the islands and around the Big Island through the weekend.
Heavy rain will continue spreading westward across the rest of Hawaii into Sunday. Lower rainfall totals are expected in other parts of the state, but even moderate rain can create dangerous conditions when falling on already saturated ground.
When Will Hurricane Lala Leave Hawaii?
Forecast guidance indicates that Lala should move west of the Hawaiian Islands by Monday. After leaving land, the system could remain over the central and western Pacific for more than a week, potentially as a hurricane or typhoon, far from populated areas.
Meteorologists also warn that Lala may not be the final storm to approach Hawaii this season. A strengthening El Niño and warmer-than-average ocean temperatures can support a more active central Pacific hurricane season.
For now, the main priorities are avoiding flooded roads, securing loose outdoor objects, staying away from shorelines and keeping emergency supplies ready. The latest hurricane tracker Hawaii information should be checked frequently because storm strength, rainfall totals and local warnings can change quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Hurricane Lala now?
Hurricane Lala was located just south of the Big Island on August 16, 2026, moving generally west-northwest and spreading hazardous weather toward Maui, Oahu and Kauai.
Which areas are under hurricane warnings?
A hurricane warning is in effect for the Big Island. Tropical storm warnings cover Maui County, Oahu and Kauai County.
How much rain could Hawaii receive?
Maui and the Big Island could receive 8 to 12 inches of rain, with isolated peak totals reaching 25 inches on the Big Island through Sunday.
What are the biggest dangers from Lala?
The primary threats are flash flooding, landslides, damaging winds, falling trees, power outages, coastal flooding and extremely rough surf.
When is Lala expected to move away?
Forecasts indicate that Lala should depart west of the Hawaiian Islands by Monday, although dangerous rain, wind and surf may continue before then.
