Tropical Storm Moke advances toward Hawaii as winds strengthen

Tropical Storm Moke is moving toward Hawaii, expected to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to the Big Island, according to the AP report. The storm, which formed earlier this week, is currently located about 470 miles southeast of Hilo, moving west-northwest at a speed of 12 mph. As of early Saturday morning, Moke had maximum sustained winds of around 50 mph.

While Moke is expected to pass south of a direct hit on the Big Island late Saturday into early Sunday, residents are still recovering from the impacts of Hurricane Lala, which caused extensive damage and one storm-related death. Moke's rainfall predictions for the southeast and windward sides of the Big Island range from 5 to 10 inches, with isolated areas possibly receiving up to 15 inches.

Across the rest of the island chain, 1 to 2 inches of rain are forecasted, with parts of east Maui potentially seeing up to 4 inches. Although no coastal watches or warnings are in effect at this time, authorities advise monitoring the storm's progress closely, as rainfall could lead to dangerous rip currents, life-threatening flooding, and mudslides, particularly in steep areas and areas with saturated ground.