A hurricane warning is in effect for the Big Island of Apnews as Hawaii tracks closer to the state, bringing threats of damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and rough surf. National Weather Service forecasters in Honolulu issued the hurricane warning for the Big Island, replacing a previously active hurricane watch. Additionally, a tropical storm watch is in place for Maui County, covering the islands of Maui, Lanai, Molokai, and Kahoolawe.
Hurricane Warning Issued as Tropical Storm Lala Approaches Hawaii
According to updates from the Central Pacific Hurricane Center, the storm was located about 550 miles east-southeast of Hilo and roughly 770 miles east-southeast of Honolulu, carrying maximum sustained winds of 60 mph. Forecasters noted that tropical-storm-force winds extended outward up to 275 miles from the center. The system is moving toward the west-northwest at 12 mph, and a faster west-northwestward motion is anticipated over the coming days.
Forecast Track and Expected Intensification
Lala is expected to steadily strengthen and reach hurricane status as it approaches Hawaii County, potentially becoming a low-end Category 1 hurricane. The storm’s core is projected to be near the Big Island on Saturday before passing just south of the remainder of the island chain through the rest of the weekend. Forecasters indicate that some slowing of the storm’s forward speed, alongside possible weakening, could occur as its core interacts with the mountainous terrain of the Big Island.
Hurricane conditions are expected on the Big Island by early Saturday morning, with winds potentially reaching 75 mph or higher. In elevated areas, wind speeds atop and on windward slopes and mountains can be up to 30% stronger than near-surface winds, with certain locations facing the potential for winds of up to 110 mph. Tropical storm conditions in Maui County could arrive by late Saturday.
Severe Flood Threats and Statewide Impacts
Hazardous weather impacts are projected to begin across the Hawaiian Islands starting late Friday and extending through Saturday night, with rain, wind, and rough surf persisting into Sunday. Widespread rainfall totals of 8 to 12 inches are anticipated across Maui and the Big Island, with upslope and windward areas potentially seeing 10 to 15 inches. Maximum localized totals on the The Weather Channel could reach up to 25 inches, while Maui may see localized amounts up to 15 inches. These downpours carry the risk of producing life-threatening flash flooding, mudslides, and landslides, particularly in hilly and mountainous terrain.
Along the coast, storm surge up to 3 feet is expected to impact coastal areas—particularly south-facing shores—alongside dangerous high surf, rip currents, and coastal flooding. A high surf advisory was previously issued for south-facing shores, driven by a long-period south swell producing breaking waves of 8 to 12 feet.
Closures, Cancellations, and Emergency Preparations
State agencies and local organizations have begun implementing closures and event adjustments in response to the approaching storm. On the Big Island, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park announced rolling closures for Thursday and Friday, alongside the cancellation of camping permits for Friday and Saturday nights. Educational institutions including the Volcano School of Arts and Sciences scheduled early releases, while UH Hilo and Hawaii Community College announced campus closures for August 15 and 16. All solid waste facilities and transfer stations on the island are set to close Saturday, and various athletic events, community summits, and evacuation drills have been postponed or rescheduled.
Emergency management officials recommend that residents secure outdoor objects such as patio furniture and plants, clear gutters and drains, raise valuable possessions off the ground, and prepare for potential power outages. Individuals living in areas susceptible to flash flooding and landslides are advised to monitor forecasts closely and maintain emergency supplies, including food, water, medicine, and power backups.
