Hurricane Lala is impacting Hawaiʻi Island with dangerous winds, torrential rain and significant disruptions to travel and power as the storm moves close to the island. The National Weather Service has issued a Hurricane Warning and a Flood Watch, and officials have asked residents and visitors to seek shelter and remain off the roads.
What is happening now
As of 11:00am on Saturday, 15 August, Lala was centred about 65 miles south‑southeast of South Point and carrying maximum sustained winds of 75 mph, placing it within Category 1 intensity. The NWS warns that hurricane‑force winds over 74 mph are expected across parts of the island, with wind gusts already reported close to 80 mph in South Kohala.
Heavy rainfall is affecting large areas of the island. The NWS forecasts 15–20 inches of rain for windward locations, with some isolated places potentially receiving more than 30 inches. That amount of rain in a short period raises the risk of life‑threatening flash floods and widespread runoff into low‑lying areas.
Public warnings and official advice
Hawaiʻi County and emergency managers have urged people to stay sheltered and off the roads. Officials report widespread power outages and multiple road closures as crews respond to downed trees and debris.
“We are receiving reports of downed trees and road closures across the island, and hazardous weather conditions will continue to intensify today,” said Mayor Kimo Alameda. “While road crews are working hard to clear debris as conditions allow, we need all residents and visitors to heed all warnings, move into safe shelter, and stay off the roadways.”
Practical steps to take now
- Seek sturdy shelter immediately and remain there until authorities say it is safe to move.
- Avoid travel — closed highways will remain unsafe due to debris, flooding and fallen trees.
- Prepare for extended power outages: have torches, batteries and charged mobile devices; conserve battery power.
- Stay informed via official channels: local emergency services, the National Weather Service and county announcements.
The mayor explicitly asked residents to remain sheltered for the safety of both residents and first responders until the worst of the storm has passed.
Road closures and impacts
As of 12:30pm on Saturday there were multiple highway closures reported by county authorities. The following table summarises the closures listed by officials.
| Highway | Location | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Highway 250 | Mile markers 1–19 | Both lanes closed |
| Highway 19 | Mile marker 53.7 | Both lanes closed |
| Highway 11 | Mile markers 57–62; 66–68 | Both lanes closed |
| Other roads | North Kulani Road; Government Beach Road (residents only); Haao Springs Road; Kaʻal | Closures or restricted access reported |
These closures will affect movement across the island and complicate relief and repair operations. Road crews are working where conditions allow, but officials caution that fast‑moving floodwaters and windborne debris present a continuing hazard.
Confidence and outlook
Forecast confidence in the broad behaviour of Lala — that it will bring hurricane‑force winds and heavy rain to parts of Hawaiʻi Island — is high, given current observations and official advisories. Timing and exact local impacts can vary, however, and the most severe conditions are expected to arrive through the afternoon and evening on the day of the advisory.
Residents should treat current warnings as urgent. Remain in shelter, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow instructions from local emergency management. Monitor official updates for changes to warnings and for restoration notices as crews assess damage and clear routes.
