US: Hurricane Lala brings Hawaii heavy rain, strong winds

Hurricane Lala, a Category 1 storm, made landfall on Hawaii's Big Island on Saturday, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds. Its eye crossed over the southern part of the island, with winds reaching 75 miles per hour. The National Hurricane Center predicted that the island could receive between 10 to 20 inches of rain, with potential for up to 25 inches in certain areas. This influx of water poses a risk of life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly in regions with steep terrain.

The Big Island, the largest and second-most populous island in Hawaii, is home to over 200,000 residents. As of now, more than 40,000 utility customers were without power, with over 31,000 of them on the Big Island. A hurricane warning was issued for the Big Island, while tropical storm conditions affected Oahu, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Kauai, and Niihau.

Storm surges of one to three feet, accompanied by large and dangerous waves, were also forecasted. In response to the impending disaster, Hawaii Governor Josh Green declared a state of emergency and advised residents to seek shelter in place. The state's airports, Hilo International and Ellison Onizuka Kona International, were temporarily closed.

Authorities set up shelters and advised residents to clear drains and gutters, move valuable items off the ground, and prepare for possible prolonged power outages. Meteorologists warned of an increased wildfire risk due to the dry and breezy conditions outside the storm. This storm arrives amid a powerful El Nino event, which can heighten hurricane activity in the Pacific. Since Hurricane Iniki struck Kauai in 1992, Hawaii has not experienced a major hurricane landfall, resulting in six deaths and considerable damage.