Additional Coverage:
As of Monday, Tropical Storm Lala has moved away from Hawaii, leaving behind significant damage across the islands. Although Lala did not make landfall, the storm delivered heavy rainfall and strong winds, causing widespread flooding and disruption.
On Hawaii’s Big Island, flooding was severe enough to dislodge around 100 homes from their foundations. Fortunately, Governor Josh Green confirmed that no fatalities have been linked to the storm’s impact.
A fatal car crash reported on Sunday has since been determined unrelated to Lala. “Everyone is safe and healthy,” Green said, while acknowledging the extensive cleanup ahead.
Power outages affected tens of thousands of residents, and heavy rains triggered landslides that damaged roads and infrastructure. Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda reported that restoring electricity could take several days in some areas, with at least six bridges sustaining partial destruction. He also urged residents to conserve water, as the Department of Water Supply requested limiting usage to essential needs only.
In response to the storm’s effects, all state and county offices, schools, and courts remained closed on Monday. Rainfall totals were significant, with five locations receiving 35 inches or more, including Kapalua in Maui County, which recorded 48 inches.
The National Hurricane Center noted that Lala, now moving westward, is expected to turn northwest later this week and potentially regain hurricane strength by Tuesday, with maximum sustained winds near 65 mph. Although wave activity is decreasing, dangerous surf and rip currents continue to pose risks along Hawaiian shores. Residents are advised to remain cautious as recovery efforts proceed.