Hawaii is preparing for the potential landfall of Tropical Storm Lala, which has strengthened and is forecast to become a hurricane, possibly marking the first time a hurricane directly strikes the Big Island in recorded history. Forecasters predict the storm could make landfall as a hurricane early Saturday morning.
Emergency management officials are urging residents and tourists to prepare for dangerous conditions. "Lala is strengthening, and we need people to prepare now for the potential of dangerous winds, heavy rain, flooding and large waves," stated Amos Lonokailua-Hewett, administrator for the Maui emergency management agency.
The National Hurricane Center issued a Hurricane Warning for the Big Island (Hawaiʻi Island) on Friday. Additionally, Tropical Storm Warnings are in effect for all of Maui County, which includes the islands of Maui, Molokai, Lanaʻi, and Kahoʻolawe. Kauai and O'ahu were placed under a Tropical Storm Watch.
As of Friday afternoon, Tropical Storm Lala had sustained winds of 60 mph and was expected to begin impacting the state, bringing potentially dangerous wind gusts and rain. The National Weather Service projects Lala will strengthen into a Category 1 hurricane before making landfall on Saturday. This would be the first hurricane to make landfall on the Big Island since accurate weather records began in the 20th century. Tropical Storms Darby in 2016 and Iselle in 2014 are the only tropical storms previously recorded to have made landfall on the Big Island.
The most severe impacts are anticipated for the eastern side of the Big Island. AccuWeather's worst-case scenario forecasts could see up to 30 inches of rain, severe flash flooding, mudslides, wind gusts up to 100 mph, and ocean surges nearing six feet. The broader forecast indicates the entire island chain could receive two to four inches of rain, with some isolated areas receiving up to eight inches.
AccuWeather predicts Lala will reach Level 2 on their 'Real Impact' scale, indicating potential damage to small buildings and trees, power outages, and significant property damage in coastal areas. Lead hurricane expert Alex DaSilva noted similarities to Hurricane Hone in 2024, which brought substantial flooding and winds exceeding 70 mph to the islands, despite not making landfall.
The only other hurricane believed to have struck the Big Island was the 1871 Kohala Cyclone, a Category 3 storm, though reports are primarily from unconfirmed historical newspaper accounts.
Officials are advising residents to prepare for potential extended power outages and to stock up on essential supplies, including food, water, and medications, sufficient for at least 14 days. Evacuation orders may be issued for flood-prone areas, and residents are urged to leave immediately if such orders are given. Those in vulnerable areas are also advised to secure important documents and identify evacuation routes. Maua County Mayor Richard Bissen urged the community to finalize preparations, including securing property and ensuring adequate supplies. He also emphasized checking on elderly residents and neighbors.
Hawaii is currently in its peak summer travel season, with hundreds of thousands of tourists visiting the islands daily. Maui, a popular destination, welcomed approximately 2.5 million visitors in 2025.