Tropical Storm Moke Approaches Hawaii

Tropical Storm Moke is advancing toward Hawaii, promising heavy rainfall and strong winds for the Big Island, which is still recovering from Hurricane Lala’s impact. On Monday, August 17, 2026, heavy rains from Hurricane Lala washed out a roadway in Naalehu, Hawaii.

As of Saturday, Moke was about 470 miles (755 kilometers) southeast of Hilo, moving west-northwest at 12 mph (19 kph). The storm’s maximum sustained winds were around 50 mph (85 kph), reported the National Hurricane Center.

“There will still be impacts, especially to the windward and southeast sides of the Big Island, but they will likely be more limited than Lala,” said Casey Oswant, meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Honolulu.

Hurricane Lala had caused significant damage, including tree falls, structural damage, and road erosion. One death related to the storm was reported.

Rainfall forecasts for the Big Island’s southeast and windward sides are 5 to 10 inches (13 to 25 centimeters), with localized areas possibly experiencing up to 15 inches (38 centimeters). Other parts of the island chain might see 1 to 2 inches (2 to 5 centimeters), while east Maui could get as much as 4 inches (10 centimeters).

No coastal watches or warnings were issued early Saturday, but residents were advised to stay informed about the storm’s progress. Flooding, mudslides, and dangerous rip currents are possible, particularly in saturated areas and steep terrains.

As a reference, Hurricane Lala deposited 43.54 inches (1.1 meters) of rain on the Big Island’s northeast coast. As of Saturday, approximately 9,000 customers on the Big Island were still without electricity, according to poweroutage.us.

A teenager was seen navigating through water in a damaged road section in Mountain View, Hawaii, after severe weather.

Hawaii Governor Josh Green and state officials held a news conference to urge residents to prepare by stocking up on food, medicine, and other necessities.

“There’s definitely tension in the air” as communities brace for more rain, said Tiffany Edwards Hunt, a teacher in Kea’au on the Big Island’s east side.