Tropical Storm Lala is forecast to strengthen and could reach hurricane intensity as it approaches Hawaiʻi Island, with officials urging residents to complete preparations.
Update: 11 p.m. Aug. 13, 2026
Lala holding steady, tracking WNW, forecast to become hurricane on approach to Big Island
Regular Friday updates for Aug. 14, 2026 will continue here. Forecasters expect steady intensification, and Tropical Storm Lala is likely to reach hurricane strength near the Big Island.
- A Hurricane Warning is in effect for Hawaiʻi County. A Hurricane Warning signals that hurricane conditions are expected in the warning area, typically issued about 36 hours before the first tropical-storm-force winds. Residents should rush preparations to protect life and property.
- A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Maui County, including Maui, Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi and Kahoʻolawe. A Tropical Storm Watch means tropical storm conditions are possible within 36 to 48 hours. Peak winds are forecast at 40 to 50 mph with gusts to 73 mph. The window for tropical-storm-force winds runs from Saturday afternoon into early Sunday.
- Elsewhere in Hawaiʻi, residents should monitor Tropical Storm Lala. Additional watches or warnings may be issued on Friday.
11 p.m. HST position and intensity: The center of Tropical Storm Lala was about 455 miles east-southeast of Hilo near latitude 16.7 North, longitude 148.9 West. Lala is moving west-northwest at 10 mph.
This general track is expected for the next several days, with some slowing as it nears the Big Island on Saturday, then an increase in forward speed later in the weekend. Maximum sustained winds are near 60 mph with higher gusts.
Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 275 miles from the center. The minimum central pressure estimated by Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunters is 997 mb, or 29.44 inches.
Tropical Storm Lala forecast discussion
According to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center, interaction with Hawaiʻi Island’s terrain could lead to short-term changes in Lala’s structure and intensity during its closest approach. Forecasters expect weakening as Lala passes south of the smaller islands later this weekend due to a drier mid-level environment and increasing westerly wind shear.
Early next week, some re-strengthening is possible as wind shear eases and the system remains over warm waters.
Wind
Hurricane conditions are expected on the Big Island by early Saturday. Tropical storm conditions are possible in Maui County by late Saturday.
Wind speeds on windward slopes and near higher terrain can be up to 30% stronger than near-surface winds, with locally higher gusts in elevated areas.
Rainfall
Tropical Storm Lala is forecast to produce 8 to 12 inches of rain across Maui and the Big Island, with localized maximums up to 25 inches on the Big Island. Elsewhere across the island chain, totals of 4 to 6 inches are possible, with isolated amounts near 8 inches.
Life-threatening flooding and mudslides may occur, especially on steep terrain.
Storm surge
A combination of storm surge and tide could flood normally dry coastal areas as water moves inland. Water levels in Hawaiʻi could reach 1 to 3 feet above ground in spots if peak surge coincides with high tide.
The deepest water will be along the immediate coast, accompanied by large, dangerous waves. Surge flooding depends on timing with the tidal cycle and can vary greatly over short distances.
Surf
Swells generated by Tropical Storm Lala will reach east-facing shores on Friday, spreading west and building through the weekend. Expect life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.
Similar conditions have previously led to Big Island high surf sending waves over the Kona seawall and closures along the coast. The next complete advisory is scheduled for 5 a.m. HST.
