Tropical Storm Moke began impacting Hawaii’s Big Island on Sunday, bringing threats of additional flooding and high winds as the state continues recovery efforts from Hurricane Lala. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Hurricane Center reported late Saturday night that while Moke’s center is expected to pass south of the islands rather than making landfall, its outer bands will deliver rain to the archipelago through Monday.
The weather system arrives less than a week after Hurricane Lala, which was recently downgraded to a tropical storm, passed through the region. Although Lala also did not make a direct landfall, it dropped more than 30 inches of rain in certain areas, resulting in floods and mudslides that destroyed infrastructure and homes. Hawaii Governor Josh Green signed a request on Saturday for a presidential emergency declaration to assist with the aftermath of the first storm.
Forecasters at the National Hurricane Center stated that the Big Island could receive up to 15 inches of rain, while eastern Maui is expected to see between 3 and 6 inches. Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda advised residents on Sunday to prepare for potential interruptions to communication and electricity, as well as hazardous road conditions. The weather service warned that the rainfall could trigger life-threatening mudslides, particularly in high-terrain areas already saturated by the previous week's storm.
For residents in the southeast and windward portions of the Big Island, the immediate impact involves the risk of further property loss and physical danger. The previous storm resulted in at least one death and the destruction of bridges and roads. With up to 15 inches of new rain forecast, individuals in these areas may face renewed evacuations or isolation if recently repaired or weakened roads fail again. The cumulative effect of two major tropical systems within a 10-day window places an unusual strain on local emergency response and physical infrastructure.
The situation also sets a precedent for federal disaster coordination in the region as Governor Green seeks White House assistance. The knock-on effects include delays in rebuilding efforts, as active storm conditions prevent crews from safely repairing the grid and clearing debris from mudslides. Residents will likely notice continued instability in their daily routines, including school or work disruptions and limited travel, until the storm passes on Monday and the long-term restoration timeline concludes in September. Hawaii County officials continue to monitor the storm's path south of the islands for any changes in intensity or direction.