Hawaii is bracing for a potentially significant tropical weather threat this weekend as a strengthening system moves toward the islands, bringing the possibility of torrential rainfall, damaging winds, dangerous surf and flooding.
AccuWeather meteorologists said the system could strengthen into Tropical Storm Lala by Wednesday night or Thursday morning and could potentially reach hurricane strength as it tracks near or just south of Hawaii.
The storm is expected to begin producing significant impacts Friday afternoon and continue through the weekend. AccuWeather has placed the threat at a 1 on its RealImpact Scale for Hurricanes, citing the potential for flooding, strong winds and dangerous coastal conditions.
Alex DaSilva, AccuWeather lead hurricane expert, said the developing threat is consistent with the organization’s forecast for an active Central Pacific hurricane season.
The greatest rainfall threat is expected across the Big Island, particularly its central and eastern portions, where 8 to 12 inches of rain could fall. AccuWeather is forecasting a potential Local StormMax of 24 inches. Maui and western sections of the Big Island could receive 4 to 8 inches, while Oahu, Molokai and Lanai could see 2 to 4 inches.
Such rainfall could produce flash flooding and mudslides, particularly in areas prone to rapid runoff or unstable terrain.
Strong winds are another concern. Gusts of 40 to 60 mph are possible across the islands, with 60 to 80 mph gusts possible on the Big Island. AccuWeather’s Local StormMax for wind gusts is 85 mph. The strongest winds could bring down trees and power lines and cause some structural damage.
Coastal areas will also face dangerous conditions. A 1- to 3-foot storm surge is forecast along the southern Big Island, with a potential Local StormMax of 6 feet. Dangerous surf and rip currents are expected throughout the Hawaiian Islands regardless of the storm’s eventual strength.
The potential impacts have drawn comparisons to Hurricane Hone, which passed south of Hawaii in 2024 but still produced winds of about 70 mph and roughly 2 feet of rainfall.
Forecasters are also watching another area of potential tropical development in the western portion of the eastern Pacific basin. AccuWeather said there is a high risk of tropical development there Aug. 12-13, although no land impacts are currently expected from that system.
Residents and visitors in Hawaii should monitor official forecasts as the system develops, particularly those with plans involving beaches, outdoor activities or travel during the weekend.
AccuWeather’s RealImpact Scale considers more than wind speed, incorporating factors including rainfall, storm surge and potential economic damage to provide a broader assessment of a tropical system’s possible effects.