Gov. Josh Green today signed a proclamation declaring a state of emergency for Hawaii ahead of Tropical Storm Lala.
Forecasters have predicted the storm will become a hurricane as it nears Hawaii island early Saturday, bringing strong winds, heavy rainfall, and high surf.
The emergency proclamation activates the Major Disaster Fund, and authorizes the activation of the Hawaii National Guard if needed. It directs state agencies to provide personnel, facilities and other resources for emergency response efforts, and enables expedited action for storm response and recovery.
“Tropical Storm Lala poses a serious threat to our state, particularly Hawaii island — and we are taking action now to ensure resources are available where they are needed,” said Green in a news release. “Our state and county emergency teams are coordinating closely with federal partners. I urge everyone to secure their homes, gather essential supplies, review their family emergency plans and follow updates from trusted official sources. Please take this storm seriously and look out for one another.”
As of 11 a.m. today, Lala was about 655 miles east-southeast of Hilo and about 870 miles east-southeast of Honolulu.
Lala was packing maximum sustained winds of 45 mph as it moved west-northwest at 9 mph. A faster west-northwestward motion is predicted over the next several days.
Don’t miss out on what’s happening!
Stay in touch with breaking news, as it happens, conveniently in your email inbox. It’s FREE!
The National Weather Service has issued a hurricane watch for Hawaii island, warning of peak, tropical storm force winds of 45 to 60 mph, with gusts up to 75 mph, between early Saturday and Sunday mornings.
Heavy rains, strong winds, flash flooding and dangerous surf are possible across the state this weekend.
Forecasters expect rainfall totals of 5 to 10 inches, with higher amounts possible across Maui and Hawaii island. Forecasters said the rainfall may produce life-threatening flooding and mudslides, especially in steep terrain areas.
The greatest risk of flooding is currently expected on Hawaii island and Maui.
Lala is also expected to generated large swells and dangerous surf for east-facing shores across the state.
Although the storm’s track, intensity and potential impacts are subject to change, the Office of the Governor says residents and visitors should prepare now.
They should avoid unnecessary travel during severe conditions and never drive or walk through floodwaters.
For more information on how to prepare, visit ready.hawaii.gov.