Hurricane Lala was downgraded to a tropical storm on Sunday as it bypassed Hawaii without making landfall, but it unleashed strong winds and heavy rainfall, accumulating nearly one meter in some areas. Flash floods caused significant damage in Na’alehu and Wai’ohinu, prompting a search-and-rescue operation involving Civil Defence, the National Guard, and a coast guard helicopter.
Amid challenging conditions marked by rushing water, debris, and darkness, Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda emphasized the difficulty faced in responding to the crisis. Tragically, one fatality was reported in a vehicle accident in the South Point area of the Big Island.
Honolulu experienced the brunt of the storm on Sunday morning, with the fire department responding to numerous weather-related incidents, including downed trees, roofs, power lines, and a swimmer rescue. The state remained under a flash flood warning, with concerns over heavy rain, mudslides, and power outages persisting.
Approximately 200,000 homes and businesses were without power, with the Big Island being the most affected. The storm’s impact was felt across the region, with powerful waves battering the coastlines. Tropical storm warnings were in effect for multiple islands, with the potential for destructive flooding and wildfires due to strong winds.
As of the latest update, Lala was located west of Honolulu, with sustained winds of 100 km/h. The storm’s intensity was expected to remain steady, with a possibility of regaining hurricane status later in the week. The Big Island saw significant rainfall, posing risks to residents living in high-altitude areas.
The aftermath of the storm left a trail of destruction, with local businesses like the Punalu’u Bake Shop suffering severe damage. Residents across the islands remained vigilant, with memories of previous storms fueling anxiety and uncertainty. Despite the challenges, the state’s preparation and response efforts were noted to be more effective than in previous disasters, offering some reassurance to residents.