Lala has weakened back to a tropical storm as it batters the Hawaiian islands with drenching rain and strong winds, with forecasters warning of life-threatening flooding and mudslides on the Big Island.
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Lala weakened to a tropical storm on Sunday after passing near Hawaii without making landfall, but the system continued to lash the islands with heavy rain and strong winds, according to NPR.
Despite dropping below hurricane strength, the storm was not done affecting the Big Island, which continued to be hit with hurricane-force gusts, NPR reported.
The National Hurricane Center warned of “life-threatening flooding and mudslides” conditions, according to CNBC, and predicted up to 25 inches of rain on Hawaii’s Big Island.
The heavy rainfall raises the risk of flash flooding and landslides across affected areas, in line with the hurricane center’s warnings.
Thousands of people were left without power as the storm moved across the islands, according to CNBC.
Lala’s track kept it offshore, sparing Hawaii a direct landfall, but the combination of drenching rain and damaging winds continued to pose hazards to residents.
Why it matters
Even without a direct landfall, Lala's heavy rain and strong winds threaten dangerous flooding, mudslides and power outages across Hawaii. The forecast of up to 25 inches of rain underscores the risk to homes, roads and public safety on the Big Island.
Frequently asked questions
Did Lala make landfall in Hawaii?
No. According to NPR, Lala weakened to a tropical storm after skirting Hawaii without making landfall, though it continued to affect the Big Island.
How much rain is expected on the Big Island?
The National Hurricane Center predicted up to 25 inches of rain on Hawaii's Big Island, according to CNBC.
What are the main dangers from the storm?
The National Hurricane Center warned of life-threatening flooding and mudslides, and the Big Island was hit with hurricane-force gusts. Thousands were also left without power, according to CNBC.
Timeline
- Lala is again a tropical storm, sending drenching rain and winds across Hawaii
NPR News: Hurricane Lala weakened to a tropical storm Sunday after skirting Hawaii without making landfall, but it wasn't done punishing the Big Island with hurricane-force gusts.
- Lala is again a tropical storm, sending drenching rain and winds across the Hawaiian islands
CNBC Top News: The National Hurricane Center is warning of "life-threatening flooding and mudslides" conditions and predicting up to 25 inches of rain on Hawaii's Big Island.