Hurricane Lala is on track to potentially make landfall on Hawaii’s Big Island, marking the first direct hit by a hurricane in 155 years. The National Hurricane Center reported that Lala intensified to a Category 1 hurricane, with maximum sustained winds reaching 120 km/h. The eyewall was projected to pass over or near the island’s southern tip by evening, bringing intense winds to the volcanic slopes at high elevations.
Forecasters warned that areas with higher altitudes on the Big Island, particularly around the Mauna Kea volcano, could receive up to 63.5 centimeters of rainfall, raising concerns about life-threatening mudslides. Residents living in remote mountainous regions with makeshift accommodations were advised to seek safe shelter promptly.
Bobby Camara, a 75-year-old lifelong resident of the Big Island, shared his preparations, expressing his plan to stay put and hope for the best at a care facility near Hilo. With concerns about potential power outages, people were seen stocking up on fuel for chainsaws and vehicles at busy gas stations.
Governor Josh Green emphasized the severity of the storm, warning of severe flooding and the risk of wildfires sparked by strong winds across Hawaii. Poweroutage.us reported that 10% of Big Island customers were without electricity due to the storm.
Mike Caputo, a Keaau resident, highlighted flash flooding and fallen trees, particularly albizia trees, as key concerns. He emphasized the importance of trimming trees to prevent road blockages. The Big Island was under a hurricane warning, while tropical storm warnings were issued for several other Hawaiian islands.
According to historical data, a Category 3 hurricane struck the Big Island’s northeast corner in 1871. The current forecast anticipates Hurricane Lala making landfall very close to the island’s southern tip. Shelters were opened, events canceled, and ranchers advised to leave cattle in open pastures to avoid structural collapse risks.
Officials urged residents to take the storm seriously, especially those living in rural and remote areas. State Rep. Jeanné Kapela emphasized the importance of finding secure accommodations for those with vulnerable housing structures. Concerns were raised about potential damage to agricultural lands, particularly coffee and cattle farms, as well as the aftermath of recent floods in the region.
As the winds intensified, the dry and breezy conditions outside the storm raised wildfire concerns. Reflecting on past disasters, residents remained vigilant, with memories of previous incidents like the 2023 Lahaina fire during extreme winds serving as a reminder of the importance of preparedness.
The article also highlighted historical hurricane impacts on Hawaii, such as Hurricane Iniki in 1992, which caused significant damage and fatalities. The unpredictability of storms underscored the need for continuous vigilance and preparedness in the face of natural disasters.
