Hurricane Lala weakened to a tropical storm on Sunday as it grazed Hawaii without directly hitting the islands. Despite not making landfall, the storm brought strong winds and heavy rain, totaling nearly one meter in some areas and causing torrents of water to flow down mountain slopes.
Following flash floods that swept away several homes in Na’alehu and Wai’ohinu, a search-and-rescue operation involving Civil Defence, the National Guard, and a coast guard helicopter was initiated in the coastal regions near the southern tip of the Big Island.
Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda highlighted the challenges of the situation, citing rushing water, debris, and boulders on roads, compounded by darkness. Tragically, one person died in a vehicle accident in the South Point area of the Big Island.
Honolulu faced the brunt of the storm on Sunday morning as tropical storm conditions extended across the island chain. The Honolulu Fire Department responded to numerous weather-related incidents, including downed trees, blown roofs, power line disruptions, and a swimmer rescue.
A significant portion of the state remained under a flash flood warning, with the Big Island downgraded to a flood advisory by the U.S. National Hurricane Center. Meteorologist Stephen Parker emphasized the threats posed by heavy rain, mudslides, downed trees, flooding, and power outages.
With over 200,000 properties without electricity, including a majority on the Big Island, several hospitals operated on generator power. The storm’s impact was felt through powerful waves battering the coastlines and fast-moving runoff in waterways.
Tropical storm warnings were issued for multiple islands, raising concerns about potential flooding and wildfires due to strong winds. Lala’s sustained winds of 100 km/h and movement west-northwest were monitored closely, with little change in intensity expected until Monday.
The storm’s approach prompted precautionary measures, including shelter openings, event cancellations, and guidance for cattle ranchers. The aftermath of previous floods in March had residents on alert, with some areas experiencing significant rainfall, posing risks to residents living in vulnerable locations.
Damage assessments revealed severe impacts, such as the devastation of the Punalu’u Bake Shop in Naalehu and widespread power outages affecting residents like Kate McLellan. As the state braced for the storm’s full impact, preparations and communication strategies were noted to be more effective than in previous instances, offering a sense of readiness amidst the uncertainty.