Hawaii Prepares for Tropical Storm Lala as Hurricane Warning Covers the Big Island

HONOLULU, Hawaii — Hawaii residents were preparing on Friday, August 14, as Tropical Storm Lala approached the island chain and forecasters warned that it could strengthen into a hurricane near the Big Island.

A hurricane warning was in effect for Hawaii County, which includes the Big Island. Tropical-storm warnings covered Maui, Molokai and Kahoolawe, according to reports citing the National Hurricane Center. A warning means the specified hazardous conditions are expected within the warning area; it does not mean that every community will experience the same impact.

Storm position and forecast

In an advisory reported Friday, Lala was about 420 miles southeast of Hilo, with maximum sustained winds near 60 mph. The system was moving toward the west-northwest and was forecast to strengthen as it approached the Big Island.

The exact track, strength and timing remained subject to change. Even a small shift in the storm's path could alter which communities receive the strongest winds and heaviest rain. Readers should use the National Hurricane Center and National Weather Service for the latest official coordinates, warning areas and arrival times rather than relying on this article as a live alert.

Heavy rain and flooding are major concerns

Forecasters said Maui and the Big Island could receive widespread rainfall totals of 8 to 12 inches, with isolated totals as high as 25 inches possible on the Big Island. Those figures are forecasts, not measured totals, and rainfall can vary sharply across Hawaii's mountainous terrain.

Periods of intense rain could trigger flash flooding, overflowing streams and mudslides, particularly in steep terrain and low-lying areas. Dangerous surf, strong currents and coastal flooding were also possible as the storm approached.

Officials urge residents to prepare

Hawaii Governor Josh Green declared a state of emergency to help agencies coordinate personnel and resources. State and county officials urged residents to secure outdoor objects, gather essential supplies, review family emergency plans and assist neighbors who may need help.

Residents should avoid beaches and flood-prone roads, keep mobile devices charged and never drive through floodwater. Anyone ordered to evacuate should follow instructions from local emergency officials. Travelers should check directly with airlines, accommodations and park authorities because closures and schedules may change with little notice.

What a hurricane warning means

The National Hurricane Center generally issues a hurricane warning when hurricane conditions are expected somewhere within the specified area, usually about 36 hours before tropical-storm-force winds are anticipated. Because preparations become difficult once strong winds begin, residents should complete reasonable safety measures early.

This report was reviewed on August 14, 2026. Tropical cyclone information can become outdated within hours. For current warnings, evacuation information and local instructions, consult official government sources.