This is the latest 5-day Tropical Cyclone forecast from the National Weather Service as of 5 pm Thursday. Please note the forecasted increase in strength to a hurricane on Saturday. Refer to the table below courtesy of the Homeowner’s Handbook by the UH Sea Grant if it’s safe to shelter in place, else make arrangements with a family member or friend if their home is safe to shelter in place. Ensure you have enough food, water, and essential supplies to last at least 14 days and have a ‘go-bag’ with 72 hours worth of essentials if you have to evacuate. Listen to the news to determine where the nearest hurricane refuge center will be.
This is the latest update from KHON as of 4:04 Thursday: State of Hawaii declares a state of emergency as Tropical Storm Lala approaches.
HONOLULU (KHON2) — Tropical Storm Lala is getting closer to Hawaiʻi, and state officials are taking steps before the weather turns dangerous. Gov. Josh Green, M.D. signed an emergency proclamation Thursday, Aug. 13, declaring a state of emergency for Hawaiʻi as Lala is forecast to approach the islands at near hurricane strength this weekend.
Hawaiʻi’s emergency plan: The first 24 hours after a storm
The proclamation activated the Major Disaster Fund and allowed the Hawaiʻi National Guard to be activated if needed. It also directs state agencies to provide personnel, facilities and other resources for emergency responses, so that state officials can take faster action to clear debris, protect critical infrastructure and prepare for storm impacts.
“Tropical Storm Lala poses a serious threat to our state, particularly Hawaiʻi Island — and we are taking action now to ensure resources are available where they are needed,” said Governor Green.
As of Thursday morning, Lala was about 700 miles east southeast of Hilo and moving west. The storm is forecast to strengthen and could approach hurricane strength near Hawaiʻi Island early Saturday. “Our state and county emergency teams are coordinating closely with federal partners,” added Green. “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.”
A hurricane watch and tropical storm warning are in effect for Hawaiʻi Island and surrounding waters. Heavy rain, strong winds, flash flooding and dangerous surf could affect the state from Friday through Sunday.
Forecasters expect 5 to 10 inches of rain, with higher amounts possible. Hawaiʻi Island and Maui currently face the greatest risk of heavy rain and flooding. Residents and visitors should prepare now, avoid unnecessary travel during severe conditions and never drive or walk through floodwaters.
City officials said residents should take the following steps now:
>> Review and update family emergency plans, including where to go if evacuation is necessary.
>> Assemble or replenish emergency supplies, including enough food, water, medications and essential items to last at least 14 days.
>> Have flashlights, batteries, portable chargers and other supplies ready in the event of a power outage.
>> Secure outdoor furniture, equipment and other loose objects that could become hazardous in strong winds.
>> Clear gutters, drains and areas that could contribute to flooding.
>> Keep vehicles fueled and avoid waiting until the last minute to purchase essential supplies.
>> Know whether homes are in a flood, coastal or other hazard area and be prepared to relocate if necessary.
>> Sign up for HNL Alert emergency notifications by visiting hnlalert.gov or texting HNLALERT to 888777.
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