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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.
Nolo is tracking south of Hawaii’s Big Island with winds over 100 mph. Forecasters warn of potential catastrophic flooding and mudslides as rains could reach up to 20 inches on the Big Island and other islands. Emergency declarations are in place as preparations shift into high gear.