Photo: JILL K. BRIGGS / AFP / Getty Images
Hawaii is preparing for significant rainfall as Tropical Storm Moke approaches, threatening the Big Island with over a foot of rain. As of Sunday (August 23), the storm was centered approximately 350 miles southeast of the Big Island, with sustained winds of 45 miles per hour. The island is still recovering from the impact of Hurricane Lala, which caused severe flooding and damage.
A flood watch is in effect for the Big Island through Monday afternoon, with heavy rain and gusty winds expected to affect all Hawaiian islands. The National Hurricane Center forecasts that Moke will continue its westward path near the islands until early Tuesday. According to the Associated Press, meteorologist Casey Oswant noted that while the storm's impact might be less severe than Lala, the windward and southeast sides of the Big Island will still experience significant effects.
The National Weather Service predicts 5 to 10 inches of rain for the southeast and windward sides of the Big Island, with isolated areas potentially receiving up to 15 inches. Other parts of the island chain could see 1 to 2 inches of rain, with parts of east Maui possibly receiving up to 4 inches. The heavy rainfall poses risks of life-threatening flooding and mudslides, especially in areas where the ground remains saturated from previous storms.
Hawaii Governor Josh Green has urged residents to prepare by restocking essentials and considering evacuation from flood-prone areas. CNN reports that Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will close in anticipation of the storm, and officials are closely monitoring water levels in the Wahiawa Dam.
As Hawaii braces for Moke, residents and visitors are advised to stay informed and heed warnings from local authorities. The storm is expected to pass south of the islands, but its potential for heavy rain remains a significant concern.