Tropical Storm Moke is expected to make landfall in southern Hawaii on Saturday evening, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds, merely days after the region was battered by Hurricane Lala.
The tropical storm is intensifying as it moves westward, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
Rainfall forecasts for the weekend on the southeast and windward sides of the Big Island range from 5 to 10 inches (13 to 25 cm), with potential isolated areas receiving up to 15 inches (38 cm), according to NWS meteorologist Casey Oswant.
Other areas of the island chain are projected to receive between 1 and 2 inches (2 to 5 cm) of rainfall, though parts of eastern Maui may experience up to 4 inches (10 cm), she noted.
The National Weather Service has issued warnings about potential flooding and mudslides, especially in regions that already received significant rainfall during Hurricane Lala.
Hawaii Governor Josh Green stated in a video address on Saturday, “We know there’s already at least $43 million in infrastructure damage on the Big Island and $4.6 million in residential property losses, with additional costs yet to be calculated.” He added, “There’s going to be a lot more to assess, and we will be there to provide recovery and resources, but it’s going to take some time.”
No coastal watches or warnings were in effect early Saturday morning, though residents were advised to closely monitor the storm’s development. The National Hurricane Center warned that rainfall could lead to dangerous rip currents, life-threatening flooding, and landslides, particularly in steep areas and regions where the ground remains saturated from previous rains.
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