Hurricane Lala weakened to a tropical storm on Sunday as it bypassed Hawaii without making landfall. However, the storm brought strong winds and heavy rain, resulting in nearly one meter of rainfall in some areas and causing flash floods that swept away homes in Na’alehu and Wai’ohinu.
Authorities initiated a search-and-rescue operation involving Civil Defence, the National Guard, and a coast guard helicopter to assist residents affected by the flash floods. Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda described the situation as challenging due to rushing water, debris, and boulders obstructing roads in the dark.
Tragically, one fatality was reported in a vehicle accident in the South Point area of the Big Island. Honolulu experienced severe weather conditions, with the Fire Department responding to numerous incidents, including downed trees, roofs, power lines, and a swimmer rescue.
Despite Hurricane Lala being downgraded to a flood advisory on the Big Island, the state remained under a flash flood warning. Residents were advised to stay home until the threats of heavy rain, mudslides, and downed power lines subsided.
Over 200,000 homes and businesses were without power, with the Big Island being the most affected. Hospitals operated on generator power, and powerful waves battered the coastlines as the storm passed by without landfall.
Tropical storm warnings were issued for several islands, with Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Oahu, Kauai, and Niihau at risk of destructive flooding and potential wildfires due to strong winds. Lala maintained sustained winds of 100 km/h and was expected to possibly intensify into a hurricane again.
The Big Island experienced significant rainfall, particularly in higher-altitude regions, prompting concerns about mudslides. Precautionary measures were taken, including opening shelters and advising ranchers to leave cattle in safer locations.
Businesses, like the Punalu’u Bake Shop, suffered severe damage, and residents braced for the storm’s impact. Despite the challenges, residents acknowledged the state’s improved preparedness and communication during the storm compared to previous events.