Hurricane Lala weakened to a tropical storm on Sunday as it bypassed Hawaii without making landfall. Despite the downgrade, the storm unleashed fierce winds and heavy rain, accumulating nearly one meter of rainfall in some areas and causing torrents to cascade down mountainsides.
Emergency teams, including Civil Defence, the National Guard, and a coast guard helicopter, initiated a search-and-rescue operation following flash floods that reportedly swept away several homes in Na’alehu and Wai’ohinu, coastal communities near the southern tip of the Big Island.
Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda highlighted the challenging conditions, citing rushing water, debris, and darkness hindering rescue efforts. Tragically, one person lost their life in a vehicle accident in the South Point region of the Big Island, as confirmed by Governor Josh Green.
Honolulu faced the brunt of the storm on Sunday morning, with the Honolulu Fire Department responding to numerous incidents, including downed trees, damaged roofs, power lines, and one water rescue operation. The state remained under a flash flood warning, with the Big Island downgraded to a flood advisory by the U.S. National Hurricane Center.
Over 200,000 properties were without power, with the majority on the Big Island. Hospitals relied on generators for essential services. Lala’s impact was felt along the coast, with powerful waves battering the shores and relentless rain causing flooding and mudslides.
Tropical storm warnings were issued for multiple islands, raising concerns of destructive flooding and potential wildfires due to strong winds. Lala’s sustained winds of 100 km/h were centered approximately 220 kilometers west of Honolulu, with little change in intensity expected until Monday.
Areas like Mauna Kea on the Big Island experienced significant rainfall, posing risks of landslides in high-altitude regions where some residents live in precarious conditions. As the storm approached, precautionary measures were taken, including shelter openings and livestock protection.
Punalu’u Bake Shop in Naalehu sustained severe damage, described as “literally catastrophic” by a manager. Residents, like Kate McLellan on Oahu’s North Shore, anxiously monitored the storm’s progress, recalling the recent storms that kept the community on edge.
The state’s readiness and response efforts during Hurricane Lala were commended by residents, noting improved communication and proactive measures taken by authorities to mitigate the storm’s impact.