Hawaii Braces for Hurricane Lala, a Powerful Storm Expected to Bring D

Hawaii is grappling with strong winds and torrential rain as category one Hurricane Lala lashes against its southern point. With wind speeds as high as 80mph (130km/h), Lala gained hurricane strength on Saturday.

Lala's Path of Destruction

A hurricane warning is in effect for Big Island, while Maui County, Oahu, Kauai, and Niihau are under tropical storm warnings. The storm is expected to continue into Sunday morning before moving west.

The National Hurricane Center reported at 17:00 on Saturday local time (03:00 on Sunday GMT) that Lala's eye wall was "brushing the southern portion of the Big Island". "Damaging winds and heavy rain will persist across the Big Island throughout tonight and spread westwards across the smaller islands on Sunday," it said.

Bracing for Impact

Hawaii Governor Josh Green warned residents to prepare for "life-threatening" conditions, such as floods. "Please be very safe… you do not want to be out on the roads," he added.

The storm is currently moving at nine miles per hour, with officials warning people to prepare for the possibility of damaging winds, heavy rain, flash flooding, and dangerous surf. Over the weekend, Lala will continue moving westwards, and may weaken into a tropical storm, with the centre passing just below Hawaii's other islands.

The Last Time a Hurricane Hit Hawaii

The last time a hurricane made landfall on Hawaii's Big Island was 155 years ago, according to the Associated Press news agency. Governor Green warned residents to brace for "an incredible amount of water".

Dozens of flights have been cancelled, with 40% of flights grounded at Ellison Onizuka Kona International – Big Island's largest airport – and some 80% of flights called off at its other main airport, Hilo International.

Residents Take Precautions

One person has died after a car accident, according to Governor Green. Residents are taking precautions, with many opting to stay indoors and avoid traveling.

As the storm continues to move westwards, residents are bracing for what could be a long and difficult weekend. With damaging winds and heavy rain expected, officials are urging people to stay safe and stay indoors. The storm's impact will be felt across the state, and residents are advised to prepare for life-threatening conditions.

Source: JOY