The island that powers Hawaii’s capital and history
Tripadvisor’s 2026 rankings highlight luxury hotels abroad while US residents face travel costs at home. Hawaii remains a premier gateway, Maui and the Big Island offer diverse experiences, and budget-conscious travelers seek value with subscription platforms.
Flood risk maps are being challenged as climate change drives more extreme rainfall. New analyses show FEMA maps underestimate flood risk in less-populated areas, while private models indicate substantially higher exposure, prompting calls for updated nationwide mapping.
Tropical Storm Lala has strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane and has lashed Hawaii’s Big Island with heavy rain and strong winds, causing at least one death, widespread power outages and property damage. A second system, Moke, has formed south of the islands with tropical-storm‑strength winds and will bring additional heavy rain.
Hurricane Lala has been upgraded to Category 1 with 75 mph winds. The eyewall could pass near the Big Island’s southern tip this evening, threatening heavy rain and mudslides at high elevations. Officials warn of life-threatening floods, with tropical-storm-force winds reaching Oahu and Kauai by Sunday. Shelters have opened and advisories issued across Maui, Oahu, Kauai and neighboring islands.
Hurricane Lowell has damaged coastal resorts, damaged roads and cut power on Kauai. Officials say thousands remain without power; travel disruption persists while locals and volunteers provide aid and communities begin to rebuild.