US: Hurricane Lala brings Hawaii heavy rain, strong winds

Category 1 Hurricane Lala made landfall on Hawaii's Big Island on Saturday, delivering torrential rain and powerful winds. The storm's eye neared the southern region of the island, with sustained winds clocked at 75 miles per hour. The National Hurricane Center projected the center of Lala to make landfall within or near the Big Island's southern end.

The US National Hurricane Center forecasted up to 20 inches of rain, potentially causing severe flooding and mudslides, particularly in hilly areas. This marks the Big Island's first potential direct hurricane hit in 155 years. The Big Island, Hawaii's largest by land area, is also its second most populous with around 200,000 residents.

Over 40,000 utility customers, including 31,000 on the Big Island, were left without power. A hurricane warning was in effect for the Big Island, while tropical storm warnings covered other major islands. Authorities declared a state of emergency and urged residents to seek shelter. The governor of Hawaii, Josh Green, warned the storm was severe.

The Big Island's Hilo International Airport closed, and Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport also shut down. Authorities opened shelters and advised residents to clear drains, move valuables off the ground, and prepare for possible prolonged power outages. Meteorologists warned the storm's approach could increase wildfire risks due to dry and windy conditions.

This arrival coincides with a powerful El Nino event, which can boost hurricane activity in the Pacific. Since Hurricane Iniki hit Kauai in 1992, Hawaii has not experienced a major hurricane landfall.