- Tropical Storm Moke is poised to slam into the south of Hawaii’s islands with heavy rains and strong winds on Saturday evening, just days after the region was devastated by Hurricane Lala.
- The NWS has warned that flooding and mudslides could occur, particularly in areas that already received strong precipitation during Hurricane Lala.
- Governor Josh Green stated that there is already at least $43m of damaged infrastructure on the Big Island and another $4.6m to homes from Hurricane Lala, with more to account for.
- No coastal watches or warnings were in effect early Saturday morning, but people were urged to closely monitor the storm’s progress.
- The rainfall has the potential to cause dangerous rip currents, life-threatening flooding and mudslides, especially in steep areas and places where the ground remains saturated, according to the National Hurricane Center.
- Across the rest of the island chain, 1-2in (2-5cm) of rain is expected, though parts of east Maui could see up to 4in (10cm).
Tropical Storm Moke is expected to impact Hawaii on Saturday evening, with forecasts indicating heavy rainfall and strong winds. The National Weather Service (NWS) predicts rainfall of 5-10 inches (13-25 cm) on the southeast and windward sides of the Big Island, with isolated areas potentially receiving up to 15 inches (38 cm).1
The storm comes just days after Hurricane Lala caused significant damage, with Governor Josh Green reporting at least $43 million in infrastructure damage and an additional $4.6 million to homes. He stated, “There’s going to be a lot more to account for and we will be there to provide recovery and resources, but it’s going to take some time.”234
The NWS has issued warnings about the potential for flooding and mudslides, especially in areas already saturated from Lala's rains. Rainfall could lead to dangerous rip currents and life-threatening conditions in steep regions. Although there were no coastal watches or warnings early Saturday, residents are urged to monitor the storm closely.56
As the storm approaches, the community braces for further challenges in recovery efforts from the recent hurricane, highlighting the ongoing vulnerability of the islands to severe weather events.
“Governor Josh Green said at least $43m of infrastructure on the Big Island and $4.6m to homes are already damaged from Lala, with more to account for. No coastal watches or warnings were in effect early Saturday, but the National Hurricane Center warns of life-threatening flooding and rip currents.”
The Guardian
