Tropical Storm Moke Threatens Hawaii with Additional Flooding

A tropical storm in the Pacific, named Moke, is set to exacerbate flooding conditions in Hawaii, which is still recovering from the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Lala. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Hurricane Center, Moke is currently impacting the Big Island and is expected to bring significant rainfall to other islands through Monday.

Impact of Tropical Storm Moke

The NOAA advisory, issued late Saturday night, warns that Moke could produce life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly on the windward and southeastern sides of the Big Island. This is especially concerning given the recent damage from Hurricane Lala, which has left many areas vulnerable.

• Up to 15 inches of rain may fall on the Big Island.
• Eastern Maui is expected to receive between 3 to 6 inches of rain.

Recent History: Hurricane Lala

Hurricane Lala, which has since been downgraded to a tropical storm, previously caused catastrophic flooding across Hawaii, dropping over 30 inches of rain in some regions. Although Lala did not make landfall, the heavy rainfall led to severe flooding and mudslides, destroying roads and bridges and displacing homes.

As of Saturday morning, more than 8,000 residents were still without power, with Hawaiian Electric estimating that full restoration of electricity might not occur until September 8. Tragically, at least one fatality has been reported—a 90-year-old woman who died in a flood linked to the hurricane.

Government Response and Preparedness

In response to the ongoing crisis, Hawaii Governor Josh Green has requested an emergency declaration from the White House to aid recovery efforts following Hurricane Lala. Additionally, Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda has urged residents to prepare for the impending storm, warning of potential power outages and hazardous road conditions.

“Please anticipate interruptions in power and communication and hazardous road conditions,” Alameda stated on social media, emphasizing the need for residents to stay vigilant as Tropical Storm Moke approaches.