Tropical Storm Moke carrying more rain toward hurricane-damaged Hawaii

Hawaii braces for heavy rainfall as Tropical Storm Moke approaches

Hawaii's Big Island is bracing for potentially catastrophic flooding and mudslides as Tropical Storm Moke, swirling in the Pacific, inches closer to the hurricane-damaged region. The National Hurricane Center reported that Moke was positioned about 310 miles south of Hilo on Sunday morning, with top sustained winds around 45 mph (75 kph). However, the true threat lies in the massive amount of rainfall Moke is expected to bring to the island, particularly in areas already devastated by Hurricane Lala.

Forecasters predict that Moke will deposit between 10 and 15 inches of rain across the Big Island, with some isolated spots potentially receiving up to 10 inches. This intense downpour could lead to life-threatening flooding, especially in steep terrain and on the windward and southeast slopes, where mudslides were already a major concern following Hurricane Lala.

Eastern Maui, the next island in the chain, is expected to see up to 6 inches of rain, while the remaining islands may receive one to two inches. Despite the hurricane center's warning that the Big Island would be the primary area affected by Moke's rain and winds, the northeast coast of the island was the hardest hit by Lala, receiving an astounding 43.54 inches (1.1 meters) of rainfall.

Currently, over 6,700 customers, mostly on the Big Island, are without electricity, according to poweroutage.us. No coastal watches or warnings are in effect, but state officials, including Governor Josh Green, are urging residents to prepare for the impending storm by restocking essential supplies like food, medicine, and other necessities.

Despite the looming threat, the region is urged to closely monitor Moke's progress and take the necessary precautions to ensure safety as the storm approaches.