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Hawaii Braces for Direct Hit from Tropical Storm Lala
Storm expected to strengthen to hurricane as state of emergency declared amid danger of ‘life-threatening’ floods
TL;DR
- Tropical Storm Lala is forecast to strengthen into a hurricane as it approaches Hawaii's Big Island.
- Hurricane warnings are in effect for the Big Island, with tropical storm warnings for Maui, Molokai, and Kahoolawe.
- Heavy rainfall (8-12in, up to 25in in pockets) and a storm surge of 1-3ft are expected.
- Hawaii faces a threat of life-threatening flash floods and mudslides.
- Governor Josh Green has proclaimed a state of emergency, urging residents to prepare and stay informed.
- Residents are advised to secure homes, gather supplies, clear gutters, and stay away from coastal areas.
- The storm's approach coincides with a powerful El Niño predicted to be a 'historic event'.
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has closed access to Mauna Loa's summit and other areas.
- Hawaii was last significantly impacted by a hurricane in 1992 with Hurricane Iniki.