Additional Coverage:
HONOLULU – Tropical Storm Moke is moving toward Hawaii and is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to the Big Island, which is still recovering from the recent impact of Hurricane Lala.
As of early Saturday morning, Moke was situated approximately 470 miles southeast of Hilo, tracking west-northwest at about 12 mph. The National Hurricane Center reported sustained winds near 50 mph. Forecasters predict the Big Island will again experience the most significant effects, with Moke passing just south of the island late Saturday into early Sunday.
Casey Oswant, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Honolulu, noted that while Moke will impact the windward and southeast areas of the Big Island, the effects are expected to be somewhat less severe than those caused by Lala.
Hurricane Lala had previously caused extensive damage across the island, including downed trees, displaced buildings, damaged infrastructure, and flooded roadways. One storm-related fatality was reported. The northeast coast recorded the highest rainfall, with totals reaching over 43 inches.
This weekend’s rainfall forecasts indicate 5 to 10 inches across the southeast and windward regions, with isolated spots possibly receiving up to 15 inches. Other islands in the chain are expected to see between 1 and 4 inches of rain. Authorities warn that the heavy rain could trigger hazardous rip currents, flooding, and mudslides, especially in areas already saturated from previous storms.
Although no coastal watches or warnings were in effect early Saturday, residents are advised to monitor updates closely. Approximately 9,000 customers on the Big Island remain without power following Lala’s devastation.
In preparation for Moke, Governor Josh Green and state officials held a briefing, encouraging residents to stock essential supplies, including food and medicine.
Tiffany Edwards Hunt, a Keaau teacher, expressed the community’s anxiety: “There’s definitely tension in the air” as more rain threatens areas already transformed by floodwaters.
As Tropical Storm Moke approaches, Hawaii braces for another round of challenging weather conditions.