The National Hurricane Center (NHC) of the United States announced on Friday (August 21) that Tropical Storm “Moke” is expected to approach Hawaii over the weekend, bringing a new round of heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous sea conditions to areas recently affected by Hurricane “Lala”.
Tropical Storm “Moke” was reported by Newsweek to be currently located approximately 660 miles southeast of Hilo in the Central Pacific Ocean, moving west-northwest at a speed of 9 miles per hour with maximum sustained winds of about 45 miles per hour.
Hilo is the largest and busiest city on the east coast of Hawaii’s Big Island and serves as the county seat and administrative hub for Hawaii County.
Weather forecasts indicate that Tropical Storm “Moke” will begin affecting the Big Island late Saturday (August 22) night, before gradually moving westward to impact other islands. The storm’s effects may persist until early Tuesday (August 25).
The National Weather Service (NWS) in the United States warned that areas on the windward and southeastern sides of the Big Island may accumulate 5 to 10 inches of rainfall this weekend, with localized amounts up to 15 inches. Eastern parts of Maui could see up to 4 inches, while other areas may experience 1 to 2 inches of rain.
The current projected path for Tropical Storm “Moke” is slightly south of that of Hurricane “Lala”, reducing the likelihood of a direct landfall, but the threat of flooding remains significant.
Meteorologists issued a special warning noting that the ground on the Big Island is already saturated due to recent heavy rainfall, increasing the risk of flash flooding even with limited additional rainfall.
The National Hurricane Center also cautioned that areas with steep terrain and those recently impacted by Hurricane “Lala” are at risk of life-threatening floods and mudslides.
Aside from heavy rainfall, “Moke” is expected to bring high surf conditions to parts of the Hawaiian coastline over the weekend.
The National Hurricane Center highlighted the potential for dangerous high waves, strong rip currents, and large swells near the coastlines, urging people to avoid water-related activities in rough sea conditions.
No coastal tropical storm watches or warnings have been issued yet, but meteorologists are advising residents to stay updated on the latest forecasts. The exact intensity of winds and rainfall from “Moke” will depend on its final path and development as it passes south of the islands.
As Hawaii prepares for Tropical Storm “Moke”, some areas are still recovering from the impacts of Hurricane “Lala”.
Previously, parts of the northeast Big Island received up to 43.54 inches of rainfall, resulting in flooding that destroyed some homes and damaged roads and bridges.
As of Friday, approximately 11,600 households on the Big Island were still without power.
Governor of Hawaii Josh Green held a press conference on Thursday (August 20) with state officials to provide updates on post-disaster recovery efforts and urge residents to prepare in advance for the upcoming storm.
Local authorities recommended that people stock up on food, medications, and other essentials, preparing for up to a 14-day supply of emergency provisions.