Less than a week after Hurricane Lala’s devastating floods, the Big Island is bracing for another tropical system. The National Hurricane Center reports that Tropical Depression Two‑C, located more than 700 miles southeast of the island, is expected to strengthen into Tropical Storm Moke by Friday and move toward Hawaii over the weekend.
Storm track and expected impacts
Forecasters say Moke will likely stay farther south than Lala, keeping its strongest winds offshore. However, the storm’s rain could be just as dangerous. The center predicts the storm’s core will pass about 180 miles south of the Big Island on Sunday, bringing heavy rain to the same regions that were inundated last weekend.
Rainfall totals are projected at five to ten inches across most of the island, with up to fifteen inches possible on the central and eastern slopes. Maui and the other islands may see one to four inches, with isolated pockets reaching five inches. Rain is expected to begin on the Big Island late Saturday night or early Sunday, spreading to the other islands later Sunday night into Monday.
Recovery still underway
Hawaii is still recovering from Lala, which dumped more than three and a half feet of rain on the island’s mountains, triggering landslides and flash floods. A 93‑year‑old woman died from storm‑related injuries, and police are investigating the death of a 60‑year‑old man believed to be linked to the storm.
Governor Josh Green described the damage in Naʻalehu, where mud, water, rock and debris buried homes under up to ten feet of material. More than 100 homes were lost in Lala, and crews continue to clear fallen trees, downed utility poles, and washed‑out roads. Thousands of residents remain without power.
State Defense Department Adjutant General Stephen Logan said a team is working to locate and secure human remains swept from cemeteries, having recovered over 60 remains so far.
Preparedness measures
State officials are mobilizing supplies, hotel rooms and additional power resources in anticipation of Moke. Water levels at the Wahiawa Dam, which rose more than 20 feet after Lala, are being closely monitored.
National Weather Service meteorologist John Bravender urged residents in flood‑prone areas to consider early evacuation, stay with family or friends, and prepare before the rain arrives. “If you can leave a flood‑prone area early, stay with friends or family, think about that now,” he said.
Local emergency managers are reminding the public to keep emergency kits, fill containers with water, and secure important documents. They also advise checking roof integrity, clearing gutters, and having a plan for pets.
What’s next?
Confidence in Moke’s exact track and intensity will improve as the system organizes. A stronger storm could shift farther north, bringing it closer to the islands, while a weaker system would remain offshore. Residents are asked to stay tuned to local forecasts and heed any evacuation orders that may be issued.
The coming days will test the island’s resilience as it balances ongoing recovery with the threat of new flooding. Community groups, churches and families are already coordinating shelter options for those who may need to leave vulnerable areas.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
