Hurricane Lala Strengthens to Category 1 Just 85 Miles From Hawaii’s Big Island
Hurricane Lala has strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane as it closes in on Hawaii’s Big Island, with maximum sustained winds reaching 75 mph, according to the latest hurricane center data. The storm was about 85 miles south-southeast of South Point, Hawaii, as conditions deteriorated across the island. (paNOW)
Lala becomes a hurricane
Recent satellite and radar observations showed Lala strengthening Saturday, pushing its sustained winds to 75 mph (120 km/h) — enough to reach Category 1 hurricane intensity.
The hurricane was moving generally westward toward Hawaii, with its eyewall forecast to pass over or very near the southern portion of the Big Island. (paNOW)
Rare hurricane warning for the Big Island
A Hurricane Warning is in effect for Hawaii’s Big Island, while tropical storm warnings cover other parts of the state.
The Big Island faces potentially damaging winds, torrential rainfall, flash flooding, landslides and dangerous coastal conditions as Lala moves closer. (Hawaii Department of Defense)
Heavy rain and flooding threat
Forecasters have warned that the Big Island could receive 8 to 12 inches of rain, with isolated totals reaching 25 inches, creating the potential for life-threatening flash flooding and landslides.
Residents are being urged to closely follow emergency instructions as Hurricane Lala approaches Hawaii and conditions continue to worsen.
