Tropical Storm Moke was advancing toward Hawaii on Saturday, with forecasters predicting increased heavy rainfall and strong gusts, particularly for the Big Island. This comes as the island grapples with the aftermath of Hurricane Lala, which caused significant flooding and wind damage.
Moke formed Friday in the Pacific Ocean and was located approximately 470 miles southeast of Hilo, moving west-northwest at 12 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. Its maximum sustained winds were around 50 mph.
The Big Island is anticipated to experience the most significant impacts from Moke's rain and winds, with the storm expected to pass south of a direct hit late Saturday into early Sunday. Moke is then projected to continue its westward track near the islands through early Tuesday.
Casey Oswant, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Honolulu, stated that while impacts will occur, especially on the windward and southeast sides of the Big Island, they may be somewhat less severe than those from Hurricane Lala. Lala's passage resulted in downed trees, destroyed buildings, damaged infrastructure, and mud-covered roads. One storm-related fatality was reported.
Rainfall totals for the weekend were predicted to range from 5 to 10 inches on the southeast and windward sides of the Big Island, with potential for up to 15 inches in isolated areas. The rest of the island chain was expected to receive 1 to 2 inches, while parts of east Maui could see up to 4 inches.
Although no coastal watches or warnings were in effect early Saturday, residents were advised to monitor the storm's progress closely. The National Hurricane Center warned that the rainfall could lead to dangerous rip currents, life-threatening flooding, and mudslides, particularly in steep terrain and areas with saturated ground.
The northeast coast of the Big Island recorded the highest rainfall from Lala, exceeding 43 inches. Approximately 9,000 customers on the Big Island were still without power on Saturday, according to poweroutage.us.
Hawaii Governor Josh Green and state officials urged residents to prepare by ensuring they have adequate supplies of food, medicine, and other essentials. Residents in areas prone to flooding expressed apprehension about the prospect of additional rainfall in communities that had recently experienced river-like floodwaters.