Hurricane Lala weakened to a tropical storm on Sunday, avoiding a direct hit on Hawaii but still causing significant damage with strong winds and heavy rainfall. Civil Defence, the National Guard, and a coast guard helicopter initiated a search-and-rescue operation after flash floods swept away homes in Na’alehu and Wai’ohinu. Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda described the situation as challenging due to rushing water, debris, and 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, with the Fire Department responding to numerous weather-related incidents. The state remained under a flash flood warning, with concerns about heavy rain, mudslides, downed trees, flooding, and power outages.
Over 200,000 homes and businesses were without power, with hospitals operating on generators. Despite not making landfall, Hurricane Lala brought powerful waves and high winds, causing damage along the coast. Tropical storm warnings were issued for various islands, with the potential for flooding and wildfires due to strong winds.
Lala was located about 220 kilometers west of Honolulu, with sustained winds of 100 km/h. Forecasters predicted minimal change in intensity through Monday, with the storm possibly regaining hurricane status later in the week. The Big Island experienced significant rainfall, posing risks to residents living in vulnerable areas.
Damage was reported at the Punalu’u Bake Shop in Naalehu, and residents like Kate McLellan on Oahu’s North Shore were preparing for the worst. McLellan highlighted the community’s resilience following previous storms and commended the state’s improved preparation and communication efforts during Hurricane Lala.