Hawaii experienced significant impacts from Hurricane Lala, which tracked close to Big Island without making direct landfall but still produced severe weather effects. The storm’s eyewall passed within 30 miles of Big Island’s South Point, delivering intense rainfall that reached up to 32 inches in some locations. This precipitation triggered widespread flash flooding and mudslides that displaced numerous structures from their foundations, with more than 100 properties severely damaged across Big Island.
Governor Josh Green reported that despite the extensive property damage, fatalities appeared limited to one death resulting from a car accident. The governor noted that many residents sought hospital treatment for minor injuries sustained during the storm. Approximately 180 members of the Hawaii National Guard were mobilized to assist with emergency response and recovery efforts across the affected region.
The storm’s impact on infrastructure and utilities proved substantial. More than 200,000 households lost electrical service, with three hospitals among the affected facilities, though backup generators allowed them to maintain operations. Transportation disruptions included temporary closures of Big Island’s two primary airports, Hilo International and Ellison Onizuka Kona, with around 190 flights postponed. Residents of Maui also experienced water supply interruptions.
Lalla initially reached hurricane strength with sustained winds of 91 miles per hour before weakening to tropical storm status with winds near 65 miles per hour. Tropical storm warnings remained in effect for all eight of Hawaii’s major islands. Officials cautioned that dangerous conditions could persist as the system tracked westward south of the Hawaiian archipelago. The National Hurricane Center continued monitoring the storm’s progression and potential impacts.
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