Hurricane Lala diminished to a tropical storm on Sunday after skirting past Hawaii without hitting land, but it continued to unleash powerful hurricane-force gusts on the Big Island. The region was bracing for nearly one meter of rainfall on the windward slopes, leading to swollen rivers and the risk of mudslides.
Tropical storm conditions were expanding westward from Maui to Oahu and Kauai, with the National Hurricane Center cautioning about stronger winds at higher elevations and on the slopes than those used to classify storms based on surface winds.
The Big Island experienced pounding waves and strong winds as Hurricane Lala moved through. The storm left over 130,000 households without power across the three main islands, with several hospitals relying on backup generators. Tragically, one person died in a car accident on the Big Island, and the governor reported significant damage to properties and infrastructure.
A search-and-rescue operation was initiated after flash floods swept away occupied homes in Na’alehu and Wai’ohinu. The challenging conditions, including rushing water and debris, complicated rescue efforts in the dark.
Tropical storm warnings remained in place for multiple Hawaiian islands as Lala progressed westward. The storm, sustaining winds of 110 km/h, was forecast to regain hurricane strength later in the week after moving away from the island chain.
Residents prepared for the storm by opening shelters, canceling events, and securing property. The threat of flash floods and fallen trees loomed large, causing concerns about road blockages and property damage. The community was urged to stay cautious and vigilant during the storm’s passage.
Overall, the impact of Hurricane Lala highlighted the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of natural disasters, especially for those living in vulnerable areas prone to severe weather conditions.
