Tropical Storm Moke advances toward Hawaii as winds strengthen
Key Points:
- Tropical Storm Moke is approaching Hawaii, expected to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to the Big Island, which is still recovering from Hurricane Lala's damage.
- As of early Saturday, Moke was about 470 miles southeast of Hilo, moving west-northwest with sustained winds of 50 mph, and is forecasted to pass south of the Big Island late Saturday into early Sunday.
- The Big Island's windward and southeast sides could see 5 to 10 inches of rain, with isolated areas possibly receiving up to 15 inches, raising concerns about flooding, mudslides, and dangerous rip currents.
- Hurricane Lala previously caused significant destruction, including downed trees, damaged infrastructure, and one fatality, with about 9,000 residents still without power on the Big Island.
- Hawaii officials, including Governor Josh Green, have urged residents to prepare by stocking essentials, as communities remain anxious about additional flooding and storm impacts.