Lala is again a tropical storm, sending drenching rain and winds across the Hawaiian islands

Hurricane Lala has downgraded to a tropical storm, still bringing torrential rains and strong winds to the Hawaiian islands. The Big Island experienced hurricane-force gusts, with rainfall reaching nearly three feet on the steep windward slopes. This caused rivers to turn into raging torrents, threatening mudslides and causing flash floods that led to at least one death in a car accident and the collapse of 19 roofs.

Over 60,000 households lost power, and three hospitals had to switch to generators. The storm prompted a search-and-rescue mission as homes were swept off their foundations in Na'alehu and Wai’ohinu. Tropical storm warnings are in effect for Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Oahu, Kauai, and Niihau as Lala continues to move west, potentially causing further destruction.

Lala's top winds are currently 70 mph, and it is expected to regain hurricane strength midweek before dissipating completely, potentially delivering up to 35 inches of rain to higher-altitude areas on the Big Island, where many residents live in makeshift housing.