Hawaii records 140 mph wind gust as Hurricane Lala approaches

Key Points:

• Hurricane Lala, recently upgraded to a Category 1 hurricane with 75 mph sustained winds, is approaching Hawaii and expected to strike near the Big Island between 4-5 p.m. local time, potentially marking the first recorded direct hit on the island.
• The storm has already brought heavy rain, with up to 12 inches recorded on the Big Island’s eastern slopes, and is forecast to produce 10 to 25 inches of rain, raising risks of flash floods and mudslides due to the island’s steep terrain.
• Strong winds have been reported, including gusts up to 140 mph at Mauna Kea’s summit, and damaging winds are expected to spread to Maui, Oahu, and Kauai, potentially causing power outages, coastal flooding, and downed trees.
• The hurricane warning issued for the Big Island is the first since 2018, with the storm’s formation linked to a strong El Niño event that has reduced wind shear, allowing Lala to strengthen unusually near Hawaii.
• Authorities have declared a state of emergency, activated disaster funds, and urged residents to secure property, prepare for power outages, avoid coastal areas, and follow evacuation orders if given.