Hurricane watch issued for Hawaii amid Tropical Storm Lala threat
Tropical Storm Lala could make a historic landfall over Hawaii as a Category 1 hurricane
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is monitoring Tropical Storm Lala, which is forecast to approach near or just south of Hawaii's Big Island late Friday and into Saturday. A hurricane watch has been issued for Hawaii County.
While models favour a track slightly south of the islands, tropical storm-force winds and heavy rain may still extend far from the storm’s centre, posing risks across the region.
"Steady strengthening is forecast, and Lala could be near hurricane strength as it approaches the Big Island," the NHC warns.
There has never been a hurricane to make landfall over the Big Island in recorded history, so if the storm's track ends up staying slightly north, we could see a historic landfall.
RELATED: New tool may improve forecasts for rapidly intensifying hurricanes
Hurricane-force winds are expected on the Big Island by early Saturday, while tropical storm-force winds are forecast for Maui by late Saturday.
Rainfall amounts of 200-300+ mm are forecast across the islands, with localized totals up to 600 mm possible on the Big Island. This level of rain could lead to life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly in steep terrain.
Coastal impacts are also anticipated, with dangerous surf and rip currents developing Friday, and continuing through the weekend. The storm surge could also reach 1-3 feet.
Tropical impacts in Hawaii are common, with storms hundreds of kilometres away often causing high surf and strong winds. However, a tropical system moving this close to the islands is a rare and impressive feat.
Significant past storms include Hurricane Douglas (2020), which narrowly missed Oahu, and Hurricane Olivia (2018), making landfall in northwest Maui as a tropical storm.
Residents are advised to monitor updates and prepare for tropical storm impacts, including strong winds, flooding rain, and hazardous surf conditions.