Hawaii under hurricane warning as Tropical Storm Lala approaches

Tropical Storm Lala is moving west-northwest toward Hawaii and could become a low-end Category 1 hurricane as it nears the Big Island on Saturday. A hurricane warning has been issued for the Big Island, with winds of up to 75 mph expected by Saturday morning. Tropical storm warnings cover Maui County, Lanai, Molokai and Kahoolawe, while a tropical storm watch is in place for Oahu and Kauai County.

The storm, located about 300 miles east-southeast of the Big Island, is currently disorganized due to wind shear and dry air, with its strongest winds on the northern side. Forecasts call for the center to pass near the Big Island Saturday afternoon and then move south of the remaining islands on Sunday before departing westward on Monday.

The National Hurricane Center projects 8-12 inches of rain for Maui and the Big Island, with peak totals up to 25 inches on the Big Island through Sunday, raising the risk of flash flooding and landslides in mountainous areas. Strong wind gusts capable of damaging trees and causing power outages are also expected, especially at higher elevations and passes.

Coastal flooding and storm surge are possible along east- or south-facing shores, and rough surf is forecast between the islands and around the Big Island throughout the weekend. Residents are advised to monitor updates, prepare a hurricane plan, and be ready for possible evacuations in flood-prone terrain.

"A hurricane warning is in effect for the Big Island. Winds of 75 mph are expected there by Saturday morning," officials said.

The storm is expected to move away from the islands by Monday and could remain a hurricane or typhoon over the central and western Pacific for more than a week. Meteorologists note that an active El Niño and warmer ocean waters may lead to a busier Pacific hurricane season, though the nearby Tropical Storm Hernan is not currently a threat to Hawaii.