Tropical Storm Moke approaches Hawaii, bringing heavy rain and flood risk
Tropical Storm Moke, located southeast of the Big Island, is expected to bring 5-10 inches of rain and strong winds, prompting a flood watch for the area.
The National Hurricane Center reported that Tropical Storm Moke formed on Friday in the central Pacific with sustained winds of 45 mph and a central pressure of 1,002 millibars. The system, previously classified as Tropical Depression Two-C, is situated about 660 miles southeast of Hilo and is moving west-northwest at roughly 9 mph.
A flood watch has been issued for Hawaii's Big Island as the storm is forecast to produce 5-10 inches of rain, with isolated amounts up to 15 inches. The heaviest precipitation is expected on Sunday, according to the FOX Forecast Center, which also warned that flash-flood conditions could trigger mudslides on steep terrain.
Although the storm is projected to remain compact and pass south of the Big Island, officials said no tropical-storm watches or warnings are currently required. Nevertheless, residents may experience strong winds, heavy rain, and hazardous surf conditions across the islands.
The storm follows Hurricane Lala, which left more than 11,000 customers without power on the Big Island after delivering over three feet of rain in the southeastern region. Roads were washed out and the community of Nāʻālehu remained isolated earlier in the week.