Hawaii Devastated: Brutal Cleanup Underway After Hurricane Lala
Tropical Storm Lala Visits Hawaii: A Simple Guide to What Happened
What Is Tropical Storm Lala?
Imagine a giant, spinning storm made of wind and rain. Tropical Storm Lala was one of these storms. It formed over the warm ocean and traveled toward the Hawaiian Islands.
Simple Definition: A tropical storm is a strong storm with fast winds (39–73 mph) and heavy rain that forms over tropical oceans. If winds reach 74 mph, it becomes a hurricane.
How Did Lala Affect Hawaii?
Lala passed near the main Hawaiian islands on Monday. It did not make "landfall" (which means the center of the storm didn’t cross the coastline). But even from a distance, it brought big problems.
The Storm’s Journey (Numbered Steps)
- Sunday: Lala was a hurricane (very strong). It weakened to a tropical storm as it passed Hawaii.
- Monday: The storm moved west, away from the islands. Cleanup began.
- Wednesday (Predicted): Lala may become a hurricane again — but far out in the ocean, away from land.
Rainfall and Wind Records
Lala brought extreme rain and powerful winds to different parts of the islands.
Record-Breaking Rain
- Laupahoehoe (on the northeast coast of the Big Island) got the most rain: 1.1 meters (43 inches).
That’s almost as tall as a 7-year-old child — all in rainwater!
Strongest Winds
- Mauna Kea summit (a very tall volcano): Gusts up to 225 km/h (140 mph).
That’s faster than a race car! But this was only on the high mountain peak.
- Lower elevations (where people live): Winds of 48–64 km/h (30–40 mph) with gusts to 97 km/h (60 mph).
Damage and Cleanup
The storm caused serious damage, especially on the Big Island.
What the Storm Did
- Knocked down trees and power lines
- Caused severe flooding
- Washed about 100 homes off their foundations (the concrete base they sit on)
Good News
Governor Josh Green said: "It appears no one died when the homes were washed away."
What’s Happening Now?
Current Conditions (Monday)
- No coastal watches or warnings for Hawaii
- Winds are no longer a threat (says meteorologist Patrick Blood)
- BUT: Dangerous surf (big waves) and rip currents (strong underwater currents that pull you out to sea) are still happening
- Landslides possible because the ground is soaked with water
Meteorologist Patrick Blood:
"No really imminent hazards that we’re facing right now. Lala has moved west."
IMPORTANT SAFETY CALLOUT
Even though the storm has passed, stay safe!
- Do not go in the ocean — rip currents can pull even strong swimmers out to sea
- Stay away from steep, wet hillsides — they could slide
- Don’t drive through flooded roads — water is stronger than it looks
- Listen to local officials for when it’s safe to return home or travel
What’s Next for Lala?
| Time | Location | Strength |
|---|---|---|
| Now | Moving west, away from Hawaii | Tropical Storm |
| Wednesday | Far out in the ocean | May become Hurricane again |
| After | Open Pacific | No threat to land |
Key Point: Lala might get stronger again, but it will be far from any islands or people.
Summary
- Tropical Storm Lala passed by Hawaii Monday, bringing record rain (43 inches!) and strong winds.
- It weakened from a hurricane before reaching the islands and did not make landfall.
- About 100 homes were washed off foundations on the Big Island, but no deaths reported.
- Cleanup has started, but dangerous ocean conditions and landslide risks remain.
- Lala is now moving west and may become a hurricane again far out at sea.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
What’s the difference between a tropical storm and a hurricane?
Answer: Wind speed! Tropical storm = 39–73 mph. Hurricane = 74+ mph. Same type of storm, just stronger.
Did Lala hit Hawaii directly?
Answer: No. The center of the storm stayed offshore. But the outer bands (arms of rain and wind) still hit the islands hard.
Why is there still danger if the storm is gone?
Answer: Two reasons:
- Rip currents — the storm churned up the ocean, and those dangerous currents last for days.
- Soaked ground — hillsides are heavy with water and can slide anytime.
What does "washed off foundations" mean?
Answer: The floodwater was so strong it lifted entire houses off their concrete bases and carried them away.
Will Lala come back to Hawaii?
Answer: No. It’s moving west into the open Pacific Ocean and won’t return.