Hawaii officials closed two major airports and multiple commercial ports on Saturday as Hurricane Lala approached the Big Island, bringing 75 mph winds, heavy rain, and the risk of life-threatening flooding and mudslides. The storm, now a Category 1 hurricane, is forecast to make landfall or pass very close to the southern tip of the Big Island by Saturday evening, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC).
Hilo International Airport and Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport closed as the storm moved westward, with operations expected to resume on Sunday. The Hawaii Department of Transportation also shut down commercial ports on the Big Island, Maui County, and Kaua‘i, citing safety concerns. The U.S. Coast Guard later closed Honolulu’s commercial ports at noon.
Immediate Impact: Power Outages and Infrastructure Damage
More than 42,889 utility customers across Hawaii were without power as of 2:14 p.m. HST, including 31,792 on the Big Island and 7,203 in Maui County. Hawaiian Electric reported possible extended outages, potentially overnight, after fallen trees damaged transmission lines along a 42-mile span on the Hamakua Coast. Utility crews were assessing the damage, which disrupted power to thousands of residents.
The Maunakea Weather Center recorded wind gusts exceeding 100 mph at higher elevations, though winds were slower near sea level. The NHC warned of 10 to 20 inches of rain on the Big Island, with isolated areas potentially receiving up to 25 inches, raising the risk of dangerous flooding and mudslides, particularly in steep terrain.
Evacuations and Safety Measures
Governor Josh Green urged residents to shelter in place, noting rainfall rates of 5 cm per hour in some areas. The Big Island, Maui County, Oahu, Kauai, and Niihau were under tropical storm warnings, while the Big Island remained under a hurricane warning—its first in 155 years. Forecasters emphasized that even a near miss could cause significant damage due to the storm’s size and intensity.
Emergency shelters were opened across the affected islands, and residents in vulnerable, mountainous areas were advised to seek higher ground. The National Weather Service highlighted the risk of mudslides in off-grid communities, where improvised housing is common. Officials also cautioned about the potential for wildfires due to strong winds.
Travel Disruptions and Resident Responses
The storm disrupted travel plans for thousands, including students and families heading to Hawaii. San Francisco International Airport saw multiple cancellations, forcing travelers like Marina Chan, a freshman at the University of Hawaii, to adjust her plans. Others, such as the Peralta family from Roseville, were stranded after their flight to Honolulu was canceled. Despite the setbacks, many expressed resilience, with some opting to enjoy their time in California while waiting for conditions to improve.
Residents in affected areas reported long lines at gas stations as people prepared for potential power outages, stocking up on fuel for generators and chainsaws. Bobby Camara, 75, a care home resident near Hilo, said he planned to hunker down and hope for the best.
Historical Context and Forecast
The last time a hurricane made direct landfall on the Big Island was in 1871, according to historical records cited by the University of Hawaii. The NHC forecast indicated that Lala would weaken slightly as it moved westward, potentially passing near other islands as a tropical storm by Sunday. However, officials stressed that damaging winds and heavy rain would persist across the island chain.
Meteorologists noted that higher elevations, including areas near Mauna Kea, could receive the heaviest rainfall, increasing the risk of catastrophic flooding. The storm’s slow movement—tracking at about 8 mph—meant prolonged exposure to hazardous conditions for residents.
Ongoing Monitoring and Recovery Plans
The National Hurricane Center and local authorities continued to monitor Lala’s progress, with updates expected throughout the weekend. The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency coordinated with county officials to ensure resources were available for search-and-rescue operations if needed. Power restoration efforts were underway, but crews warned that full recovery could take days, depending on the extent of the damage.
As the storm moved inland, residents and officials alike prepared for the worst while hoping for minimal impact. The Big Island’s unique geography—characterized by steep terrain and volcanic slopes—posed additional challenges, as mudslides and flooding could isolate communities for extended periods.