Lala Near Hawaii as Hurricane Approaches Big Island

Tropical Storm Lala is forecast to become a hurricane as it nears Hawaii, with a hurricane warning in effect for the Big Island and tropical-storm warnings or watches for Maui, Oahu, and Kauai as the storm approaches this weekend. The core is expected to pass near or just south of Hawaii Island on Saturday, bringing hurricane conditions to the Big Island and heavy rainfall totals of 8 to 12 inches, locally up to 25 inches on the island. Wind gusts could reach near 100 mph in elevated terrain, and life-threatening surf, storm surge, and flash flooding are anticipated across the state. Forecasters warn that conditions will spread from the Big Island to the rest of the island chain over the weekend, with tropical-storm conditions possible on other islands. Authorities have urged preparedness, with a state of emergency declared and guidance to avoid flood-prone areas and coastal dangers as impacts unfold. Separately, officials have raised concerns about the National Weather Service’s readiness due to staffing cuts and ongoing rebuilding, potentially affecting forecasts and warnings during the hurricane season.