Hurricane Lala sparks flash floods in Hawaii as strong winds and rain persist

Hawaii is grappling with flash floods following Category One Hurricane Lala, which skirted the Big Island and continues to bring strong winds and torrential rain. The storm has left tens of thousands of properties without power, and officials have issued warnings about "life-threatening" conditions, including potential mudslides. Hurricane Lala intensified on Saturday, with wind speeds peaking at 91mph (147km/h), and could bring up to 35 inches (89cm) of rain to certain areas.

As of Sunday morning local time, Hawaii County reported that two regions on the Big Island had experienced flash flooding, with several occupied homes potentially being swept off their foundations. Governor Josh Green confirmed that one person died in a weather-related car accident on the island, where many roads have been affected. Mayor Kimo Alameda stated that the county's civil defense agency has launched a search and rescue operation to locate residents whose homes may have been washed away by the floods.

Alameda described the situation as particularly challenging due to the combination of rushing water, debris, boulders on the roads, and darkness. Videos from Hawaii's Department of Transportation depict roads submerged in fast-moving water and blocked by fallen trees. Governor Green urged residents to prepare for "an incredible amount of water" and emphasized the need to prioritize safety, discouraging people from venturing out on the roads.