Tropical Storm Lala brings heavy rain, flooding and gusty winds to Hawaii

The National Weather Service reported that Tropical Storm Lala was about 140 miles west-northwest of Kailua-Kona and 75 miles south of Honolulu early Sunday, with maximum sustained winds of 70 mph and a forward speed of 14 mph. The storm is expected to turn west later Sunday and remain south of the main Hawaiian Islands through Tuesday night, keeping a Tropical Storm Warning in effect for Hawaii, Maui, Oahu and Kauai counties.

Rainfall remains the primary hazard. The Big Island and Maui have already recorded 15-35 inches of rain in the past 24 hours, and additional rain of 1-3 inches is forecast for windward areas, with storm-total totals of 30-35 inches possible on the Big Island. Across the rest of the chain, 2-6 inches of rain is expected, with the highest amounts on windward Kauai. Officials warned that flooding and mudslides could still pose a serious risk, urging residents to avoid flooded roadways and landslide-prone zones.

Strong winds are spreading to Oahu and are expected to reach Kauai later in the day. A Molokai weather station recorded sustained winds of 53 mph with gusts to 69 mph. Gusts of 60-70 mph have been reported in mountainous areas, and a gust of 92 mph was observed on southern Molokai.

Coastal impacts include a possible storm surge of 1-2 feet along parts of Oahu and Kauai, and elevated surf with strong rip currents that could create hazardous ocean conditions. The storm is forecast to weaken slightly over the next day, though some re-intensification is possible by mid-week.

Authorities advised residents to stay indoors, keep emergency supplies on hand, and monitor updates from local officials. Evacuation orders will be issued only if necessary, and power outages and road closures remain possible as the storm progresses.