In brief
Category 1 hurricane Lala is on the brink of brushing Hawaii’s Big Island, marking its first direct landfall in 34 years. Officials warn of 25‑inches of rain, a 3‑ft storm surge and potential mudslides. Flights have been grounded and shelters activated across the island. Residents are packing sandbags and staying alert as the storm looms, echoing memories of past devastating strikes.
Hawaii is bracing for what could be its first direct hit from a hurricane since 1992, as category one storm Lala churns off its coast.
Lala, now a Category 1 with 75‑mph winds, threatens to pour up to 25‑inches of rain on the Big Island and produce a 3‑ft storm surge.
A hurricane warning covers the Big Island, while Maui, Oahu, Kauai and Niihau face tropical storm warnings. Officials urge residents to prepare for floods, mudslides and life‑threatening conditions.
The last direct hurricane hit Hawaii’s Big Island was in 1992, wiping out 154 years ago. Lala could either make landfall or pass close to the southern tip before heading west.
Governor Josh Green warns of "an incredible amount of water" via X, highlighting damaging winds, heavy rain, flash flooding and dangerous surf across the state.
Airports report massive cancellations: 40% of flights were grounded at Kona International and 80% at Hilo International.
The National Weather Service predicts major rainfall flooding that could trigger evacuations and rescues, with rivers overflowing in multiple places.
Social media shows residents filling sandbags and checking store hours, while civil defense agencies advertise public shelters in every county on Big Island.
The storm’s severity reminds Hawaii of Iniki, a devastating Category 4 hurricane that struck in 1992, causing six deaths and $3 bn in damage.
