Heavy rain and strong winds from Hurricane Lala have swept across Hawaii. They caused severe flash floods, cut electricity to over 200,000 homes, and damaged more than 100 houses on the Big Island.
Category 1 Hurricane Lala passed within 30 miles (48 kilometers) of the Big Island's southern tip without making direct landfall. The storm weakened into a tropical storm as it moved west. However, it had winds up to 91 mph (146 km/h) and dropped up to 35 inches (89 centimeters) of rain on higher mountain slopes.
Heavy rain turned quiet rivers into fast, dangerous currents and caused mudslides. In southern coastal communities such as Na’alehu and Wai’ohinu, flash floods washed several occupied homes off their foundations. Officials confirmed that at least one person died in a car accident during the storm. Emergency rescue teams, including the National Guard and Coast Guard, were deployed to locate missing residents.
Power outages affected more than 200,000 homes and businesses across Hawaii's three main islands. At least three hospitals had to rely on emergency generators. Downed trees and broken power lines blocked key highways. High winds ripped roofs off buildings. Famous local landmarks also suffered heavy damage. The Punalu’u Bake Shop in Na’alehu was flooded with three feet of mud.
Emergency shelters remain open. Weather officials warn residents to stay off the roads while tropical storm conditions continue across Maui, Oahu, and Kauai.