An emergency has been declared in the US state of Hawaii in preparation for Tropical Storm Lala, which could bring strong winds, flooding and landslides over the weekend.
The National Weather Service said the storm, currently over the Pacific, is strengthening. Forecasters say it could become a hurricane as it nears Hawaii’s Big Island.
The storm’s winds are currently about 50 miles per hour (80 kilometres per hour), with stronger gusts.
The weather service also said parts of the Big Island could receive up to 25 inches (63.5 centimetres) of rain.
Hawaii Governor Josh Green declared the emergency to prepare for possible damage, opening the way for the rapid deployment of funds, equipment and personnel if needed.
“Tropical Storm Lala poses a serious threat to our state, particularly to the island of Hawaii,” Green said. “We are taking action now so that resources and assistance can reach the places that need them quickly.”
“I urge everyone to secure their homes, gather necessary supplies, review their family emergency plans and follow the latest information from reliable official sources. Take this storm seriously and check on one another,” he said.
About 210,000 people live on the island of Hawaii, the second-largest in the archipelago by population. Oahu has the largest population, with more than one million residents.
The storm’s exact path remains uncertain, though forecasts suggest it may stay over the sea close to the coast.
It could be the first tropical storm to make a direct hit on the Hawaiian islands since 2018.
The El Nino weather pattern is particularly strong this year, raising temperatures in the equatorial Pacific and increasing the likelihood of cyclones. Meteorologists have forecast a far more active hurricane season than usual in the region.
Scientists have repeatedly warned that climate change caused by burning fossil fuels is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.
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