Hurricane Lala, packing 75mph winds, is threatening what would be Hawaii's first direct hurricane hit since 1992, with forecasters warning of up to 25 inches of rain and a 3-foot storm surge on Big Island. A hurricane warning covers Big Island while Maui County, Oahu, Kauai and Niihau are under tropical storm warnings, with officials warning of life-threatening flooding and mudslides.
The National Weather Service says major flooding could force widespread evacuations and rescues as rivers overflow in multiple locations across Big Island's south-east. Nearly 40% of flights were cancelled at Kona International and 80% at Hilo International as the storm approached.
Governor Josh Green urged residents to brace for 'an incredible amount of water,' citing damaging winds, flash flooding and dangerous surf statewide through the weekend. Hawaii County has opened public shelters, and residents have been filling sandbags, as the last hurricane to hit the islands, 1992's Iniki, killed six people and caused $3bn in damage.
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