Hurricane Lala approaches Hawaii’s Big Island with storm surge warnings for Oahu and Kauai
Tropical Storm Lala maintained its intensity and is advancing towards the Big Island, in Hawaii, with a forecast of becoming a Category 1 hurricane upon arrival in the region in the next period. Alerts were issued this morning for several islands in the archipelago, indicating the need for urgent preparations by residents and authorities.
The trajectory indicates that Lala should pass directly over, or just south of, Ilha Grande, becoming a Category 1 hurricane. In subsequent days, the storm will track south of the state’s other islands, as a strong tropical storm.
Lala intensification and projected route to Hawaii
During the morning, Tropical Storm Lala had maximum sustained winds of 60 mph. It was located 676 km east-southeast of Hilo and 1,020 km east-southeast of Honolulu, moving west-northwest at 19 km/h. Forecasters at the Central Pacific Hurricane Center reported that tropical storm-force winds extended up to 200 miles (330 km) north of the system’s center.
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Experts predict continued strengthening of the storm. Lala is expected to reach hurricane status as it approaches Ilha Grande. The most recent projection for the next five days sees Lala as a minimum category hurricane, with maximum sustained winds of 120 km/h and even stronger gusts, before moving south of the smaller islands.
Several islands under storm and flood warning
Authorities have issued a series of alerts and surveillances for the Hawaiian Islands, with the aim of protecting the population and ensuring adequate preparation:
- Big Island:It remains under a hurricane warning.
- Maui County:It remains under a tropical storm warning.
- Oahu and Kauai:They were placed under a tropical storm watch this morning.
- Big Island and Maui:They are under a flood warning, valid from tonight until the end of the following period.
- Kauai and Oahu:They are also under a flood warning, starting the evening of the next day and extending until the evening of the following day.
Imminent dangers and safety measures
State and municipal authorities warn the public to prepare for dangerous weather impacts starting today on Ilha Grande. The main dangers associated with the storm’s passage include:
Strong winds will hit the region
Hurricane conditions are expected on the Big Island during the coming period, with tropical storm conditions forecast for Maui County. The islands of Oahu and Kauai may experience tropical storm conditions in subsequent days. It is essential to note that wind speeds in elevated areas, such as exposed mountain tops and slopes, can be up to 30% higher than winds measured near the surface.
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Torrential rains and risk of flooding
Storm Lala is expected to cause rainfall of between 20 and 30 centimeters on Maui and the Big Island. In some areas of Ilha Grande, maximum totals can reach 63 centimeters. For the rest of the archipelago, the expectation is 5 to 10 centimeters, with peaks of 20 centimeters. This intense precipitation can cause flash floods and landslides, especially on steep terrain, posing a risk to life.
Threat of dangerous storm surge and sea level rise
The combination of a dangerous storm surge and high tide can flood coastal areas that normally remain dry. Sea water can rise between 30 and 90 centimeters above ground level if the peak of the storm surge coincides with high tide. The most severe flooding is expected to occur along the coast, accompanied by large, dangerous waves. The extent of flooding will depend on the relationship between the timing of the storm surge and the tidal cycle.
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Large waves on the state’s coasts
Swells generated by Lala are expected to begin hitting the state’s east-facing coasts today, spreading westward and increasing in size throughout the weekend period. These high waves will likely cause dangerous surf conditions and intense rip currents, requiring caution from swimmers and boaters.
List of emergency shelters in Hawaii County
Hawaii County officials announced the opening of a series of emergency shelters, which began operating at 6pm today, in anticipation of the storm’s arrival later in the day. The available locations are:
- Hisaoka Gym in North Kohala
- Waikoloa Elementary School Cafeteria, Waikoloa Village
- Kahilu City Hall, Waimea
- Honokaa Arsenal, Honokaa
- Laupahoehoe Charter School Band Room, Laupahoehoe
- Waiakea High School Gymnasium, Hilo
- Keaau Arsenal, Keaau
- Pahoa Community Center, Pahoa
- Pahala Gym, Pahala
- Naalehu Primary School Gymnasium, Naalehu
- Yano Hall, Captain Cook
- Kealakehe High School Gymnasium, Kailua-Kona
Anyone using these shelters must bring their own personal belongings and sleeping needs. Hawaii County public transport (buses) had all its lines canceled for the weekend.
Emergency coordination and warning for fires on Oahu
On Oahu, city officials activated the Emergency Operations Center at 7 a.m. today to coordinate actions, monitor conditions islandwide, and mobilize resources as needed. The Honolulu Police Department’s Joint Operations Center was also simultaneously activated to provide support.
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Furthermore, the city warns Oahu residents that the elevated risk of wildfires remains a concern today. This is due to the combination of strong trade winds and dry conditions, which precede the tropical humidity associated with the passage of Storm Lala.
