Tropical Storm Moke is currently churning in the Central Pacific, poised to bring heavy rain and gusty winds to Hawaii's Big Island over the weekend and into early next week. The storm's approach comes just days after Hurricane Lala caused significant damage across the Hawaiian islands.
Moke is located approximately 330 miles southeast of Hilo, Hawaii, with sustained winds of 45 mph. It is moving west-northwest at 12 mph and is forecast to remain at tropical storm strength through at least Tuesday before weakening.
The Big Island is expected to receive rainfall totals ranging from 5 to 10 inches, with isolated amounts potentially reaching 15 inches. The remainder of the Hawaiian islands could see 1 to 3 inches of rain, with a maximum of 5 inches. This rainfall may lead to life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly in steep terrain and areas recently impacted by Hurricane Lala.
Hurricane Lala, which moved south of the Big Island on Sunday as a Category 1 storm, damaged or destroyed over 100 homes and cut off some communities. It also brought more than a foot of rain to parts of the state, with higher elevations receiving over 40 inches. Thousands on the Big Island are still without power following Lala's passage.