Hawaii is preparing for what could be its first direct hit by Hurricane Lala since 1992
Hawaii is preparing for a possible direct hit from Hurricane Lala, which intensified to a Category 1 storm on Saturday and is currently near the islands’ coast. The hurricane’s wind speeds are reaching 120 km/h. Lala is expected to either make landfall or pass close to the southern tip of the island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island, before moving westward.
A hurricane warning has been issued for the Big Island. The counties of Maui, Oahu, Kauai, and Niihau are under a tropical storm warning. Officials have urged residents to prepare in advance for life-threatening conditions, including flooding and landslides.
According to the worst-case scenario, Lala could bring up to 63 cm of rainfall to the Big Island and cause a storm surge of about 90 cm. The U.S. National Weather Service has warned that heavy rainfall in the southeastern part of the island could lead to evacuations and rescue operations. According to the service, rivers and tributaries could quickly overflow their banks in several locations.
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Hawaii Governor Josh Green stated that the state is expecting “an incredible amount of water.” He also warned of potentially destructive winds, heavy rains, flash floods, and dangerous surf over the weekend. The Hawaii County Civil Defense Agency reported that public shelters are available on the Big Island.
Dozens of flights have been canceled due to the severe weather. According to FlightAware, about 40% of flights were canceled at Ellison Onizuka Airport in Kona, and approximately 80% of flights were canceled at Hilo International Airport. Over the weekend, Lala will move westward and may weaken to a tropical storm, with its center passing south of the other Hawaiian islands.
Hurricane Iniki, a Category 4 hurricane, was the last hurricane to strike Hawaii in 1992. It made landfall on the southern coast of Kauai, causing six deaths and $3 billion in damage.
