Tropical storm forms near Hawaii, hurricane watch issued for the Big Island

Tropical Storm Lala emerged near Hawaii on Thursday, potentially bringing torrential rain and flooding to the islands over the weekend. The National Hurricane Center in Miami issued a hurricane watch for the Big Island, as Lala was expected to deliver heavy rains starting late Friday. Currently, Lala is positioned approximately 680 miles east-southeast of Hilo and is moving westward at a speed of 40 mph, with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph. This could result in strong winds, hazardous surf, and rip currents.

According to forecasters, Lala is anticipated to intensify, possibly reaching hurricane strength as it nears the Big Island. The center cautioned that wind speeds on the windward sides of hills and mountains could be up to 30% stronger than the surface winds. The forecast indicates that the storm could be near or south of the Big Island on Saturday, passing south of the smaller islands throughout the rest of the weekend.

Lala is projected to bring rainfall totals of 5 to 10 inches to the Hawaiian Islands, with the possibility of up to 20 inches. This substantial rainfall may trigger life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly in areas with steep terrain, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). Meanwhile, in the broader Pacific region, Tropical Storm Hernan formed on Thursday, approximately 1,460 miles west of the southern tip of Baja California. Presently, Hernan does not pose a threat to land.