Hurricane Lala Knocks Out Power for 40,000 in Hawaii

Hurricane Lala, a Category 1 storm, swept past the southern tip of Hawaii's Big Island on Saturday without making landfall, yet caused widespread destruction — cutting power to more than 40,000 utility customers across Hawaii, with over 31,000 on the Big Island alone. Roads flooded, rivers turned into raging torrents, and Governor Josh Green declared a state of emergency, urging residents to shelter in place.

The Storm's Impact

Lala had maximum sustained winds of 75 miles per hour (120 km/h) as its center moved over or near the southern end of the Big Island. The National Hurricane Center warned the island could receive between 10 and 20 inches (25 to 50 centimeters) of rain, with isolated areas receiving up to 25 inches. Officials described the resulting flash flooding and mudslides as life-threatening, particularly in steep terrain. A storm surge of one to three feet was also expected, accompanied by large and dangerous waves.

Airports Closed, Shelters Opened

Hilo International Airport and Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport were both shut as the storm passed. Authorities opened emergency shelters and urged residents to prepare for possible extended power outages, clear drainage systems, and move valuables off the ground. A hurricane warning was in effect for the Big Island, while tropical storm warnings covered Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Oahu, Kauai and Niihau.

Context: A Rare Event

The event was potentially the Big Island's first direct hit from a hurricane in 155 years, though the storm ultimately passed without making landfall. Hawaii has not experienced a major hurricane landfall since Hurricane Iniki struck Kauai in 1992, killing six people and causing billions of dollars in damage. Meteorologists note that Lala's arrival coincides with an active El Niño in the central equatorial Pacific, which can intensify hurricane activity.