HONOLULU — Tropical Storm Moke moved within striking distance of Hawaii on Sunday, prompting officials to warn residents of the Big Island that additional rain could exacerbate damage left by Hurricane Lala last weekend.
The National Hurricane Center placed the storm’s center about 310 miles (500 kilometers) south of Hilo early Sunday morning. While sustained winds are modest at roughly 45 mph (75 kph), the primary concern is the volume of rain the system is expected to deliver.
Rainfall forecasts and flood risk
Forecasters project as much as 10 inches of rain across most of the Big Island, with isolated locations potentially seeing up to 15 inches. The windward and southeast slopes, already scarred by downed trees, power lines, mudslides, and damaged roads, are at particular risk for life‑threatening flooding and additional slides.
Eastern Maui could receive up to six inches of rain, while the remaining islands are likely to see one or two inches, according to the hurricane center’s outlook.
Impact from Hurricane Lala still evident
The Big Island bore the brunt of Lala’s devastation, recording a historic 43.54 inches (1.1 meters) of rain along its northeast coast. More than 6,700 customers, most of them on the island, remained without electricity on Sunday, according to poweroutage.us. Two deaths linked to Lala were reported.
State officials, including Governor Josh Green, held a news conference ahead of Moke’s arrival, urging residents to restock food, medicine and other essentials, and to stay informed about the storm’s progress.
Community response
Local teachers, business owners and families expressed heightened anxiety about the prospect of further rain. “There’s definitely tension in the air,” said Tiffany Edwards Hunt, a teacher in Keaau on the island’s east side, reflecting the concern felt throughout affected neighborhoods.
Although no coastal watches or warnings are currently in effect, officials continue to monitor the storm closely and advise residents to heed any future advisories.
What residents can do
Authorities recommend the following precautions:
- Secure outdoor items that could become projectiles in strong gusts.
- Clear gutters and drainage pathways to reduce flood risk.
- Keep flashlights, batteries and a portable radio on hand.
- Avoid travel on roads that may be washed out or blocked by debris.
Emergency shelters remain open for those displaced by earlier flooding, and the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency is prepared to activate additional resources if conditions worsen.
As Moke moves westward, south of the island chain, residents are urged to stay vigilant, follow official updates, and prioritize safety for themselves and their families.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
