A powerful hurricane called Storm Lala has been brewing near Hawaii for quite some time now. Now, the island state has declared a state of emergency, ahead of the hurricane’s official onset.
Hawaii Declares State of Emergency
Hawaii has declared a state of emergency as Tropical Storm Lala strengthens toward the islands. Forecasters warned that Lala could reach hurricane strength before or as it approaches the island on Saturday, August 15. The potential hurricane could bring destructive winds, torrential rain, flooding, landslides to the Pacific island state.
What is Tropical Storm Lala?
Lala is a tropical cyclone that formed in the Central Pacific Ocean on August 13, 2026. The cyclone is steadily intensifying as it marches towards the island chain. Weather scientists believe that it has been caused by a historically warm El Niño climate pattern in the Pacific Ocean but factors like unusually favorable atmospheric and ocean conditions allowed it to strengthen.
Tropical Storm Lala: List of Affected Areas
Hurricane Warning
Hawaiʻi Island / Big Island: The entire Big Island is under a Hurricane Warning.
Tropical Storm Warning
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Maui
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Lānaʻi
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Molokaʻi
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Kahoʻolawe
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Oʻahu County
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Kauaʻi County,
Local experts believe that the state’s Big Island will be the most affected from the cyclone & could receive up to 8–12 inches of rainfall, which is high enough to cause landslides & flash floods.
Tropical Storm Lala: Resident Advisory
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Secure loose outdoor objects and property.
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Keep emergency food, water, medicines and essential supplies ready.
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Charge phones and backup batteries.
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Stay away from beaches, shorelines and flooded roads.
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Do not drive through floodwater.
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Follow evacuation or shelter instructions from county authorities.
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Keep checking official weather and emergency alerts.
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Travelers should confirm flight status with their airlines.
Residents can also monitor official emergency information through Hawaii’s disaster management authorities.