Tropical Storm Moke brings additional rain and flood risk to Hawaii's Big Island

A tropical storm designated Moke is moving toward Hawaii's Big Island, arriving just days after Hurricane Lala produced significant flooding on the island. The National Hurricane Center issued its first advisory for the system as Tropical Depression Two-C on Thursday, upgraded it to a tropical storm on Friday, and noted that it weakened back to a depression over the weekend.

The storm is expected to deliver additional rainfall, particularly over the island's mountainous terrain and eastern slopes, where several more inches of rain have already been recorded. A flood watch remains in effect for the Big Island, and officials warn that the added precipitation could trigger flash flooding and landslides in vulnerable areas.

Although tropical storm watches have been issued for parts of the islands, gusty winds are also anticipated, especially in higher terrain and downslope regions.

"The primary concern is the potential for heavy rain to cause flash flooding and landslides," the National Hurricane Center said.