Tropical Storm Lala is expected to intensify into a hurricane as it approaches the Big Island of Hawaii on Saturday. As of 11 a.m. ET, the storm was moving west-northwest at 12 mph with maximum sustained winds of 60 mph, located approximately 420 miles east-southeast of Hilo.
The National Hurricane Center has upgraded the tropical storm watch for Maui County to a tropical storm warning. New tropical storm watches have been issued for Oahu and Kauai Counties. Hawaii County, the Big Island, remains under a hurricane warning.
Forecasters predict Lala will continue to strengthen through Friday and into Saturday, with a close approach to the Big Island expected early Saturday. The exact timing and intensity of the storm's impacts will depend on its proximity to the islands, but heavy rain, strong winds, and rough surf are anticipated over the weekend.
The Big Island is expected to begin experiencing heavy rainfall and gusty winds on Friday, potentially leading to life-threatening mudslides and landslides, particularly in steep terrain. The storm is forecast to bring 8 to 12 inches of rain to Maui and the Big Island, with higher elevations of the Big Island possibly receiving up to 25 inches. Other Hawaiian Islands are expected to receive 4 to 6 inches of rain.
Large and dangerous surf is also anticipated this weekend, especially along the Big Island's exposed windward and southern shores. This prolonged period of heavy surf could result in localized coastal flooding and significant beach erosion.