Tropical Storm Moke set to hit Hawaii days after Hurricane Lala's damage
Tropical Storm Moke is expected to strike southern Hawaii on Saturday evening with heavy rain and strong winds, just days after Hurricane Lala caused significant damage. Forecasters warn of flooding and mudslide risks in areas already saturated by the earlier storm.
Hawaii is bracing for Tropical Storm Moke, forecast to reach the southern islands on Saturday evening bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds. The National Weather Service (NWS) says the storm is strengthening as it moves westward.
NWS meteorologist Casey Oswant reported that the south-east and windward sides of the Big Island could see 5–10 inches of rain this weekend, with isolated areas receiving up to 15 inches. The rest of the island chain is expected to get 1–2 inches, while parts of east Maui could see as much as 4 inches.
Authorities have warned that flooding and mudslides are possible, especially in areas that were already heavily soaked during Hurricane Lala.
Lala's damage still being tallied
Hawaii governor Josh Green said in a Saturday video message that Hurricane Lala had already caused at least $43m in infrastructure damage on the Big Island and at least $4.6m in damage to homes. He noted that the final toll would likely rise further and that recovery efforts would take time, though state resources would be made available.
As of Saturday morning, no coastal watches or warnings had been issued, but residents were urged to closely track the storm's path. The National Hurricane Center cautioned that the expected rainfall could bring dangerous rip currents and life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly on steep terrain and in areas where the ground remains saturated.
