Hawaii Braces for Flooding as Tropical Storm Lala Drenches Islands
Tropical Storm Lala pounds Hawaii with torrential rain, triggering floods and a search-and-rescue mission after homes are swept away.
Hawaii is facing a severe weather crisis as Hurricane Lala, now downgraded to a tropical storm, continues to lash the islands with torrential rain and hurricane-force gusts. The storm's eyewall passed close to the state without making direct landfall, but its impact has been devastating.
In some areas, rainfall has approached three feet, sending powerful torrents of water rushing down mountainsides. The deluge has overwhelmed drainage systems and turned roads into rivers, with debris and boulders complicating rescue efforts.
A large-scale search-and-rescue operation, involving Civil Defense personnel, the National Guard, and a Coast Guard helicopter, is underway. The mission was launched after flash floods reportedly swept several occupied homes off their foundations in the coastal communities of Na'alehu and Wai'ohinu, near the Big Island's southern tip.
Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda described the challenging conditions for rescuers, citing rushing water, debris, and darkness as major obstacles. The operation is expected to continue as crews work through the night.
Tragically, at least one person has died in a vehicle wreck in the South Point area of the Big Island, according to Governor Josh Green. The full extent of the damage and any additional casualties remains unclear as the storm continues to affect the region.