Homes Swept Away as Tropical Storm Lala Batters Hawaii

Hurricane Lala weakened to a tropical storm but continued to impact Hawaii with significant rainfall and hurricane-force gusts. Nearly three feet of rain fell in some areas, causing raging torrents down mountain slopes.

Flash floods in coastal communities on the Big Island's southern tip apparently swept several occupied homes off their foundations, prompting a search-and-rescue mission. Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda described the challenging conditions with rushing water, debris, and boulders on roads.

Honolulu experienced widespread weather-related issues, including downed trees, blown roofs, and power line incidents. Much of the state remained under a flash flood warning, with heavy rain, mudslides, and downed trees posing significant threats.

Power outages affected over 200,000 homes and businesses, with nearly two-thirds of Big Island customers impacted. At least three hospitals operated on generator power. The storm also generated powerful waves along the Big Island's coast.

While Lala narrowly missed making direct landfall, its eyewall brought damaging winds. The storm struck three years after Hawaii experienced its deadliest wildfire. Tropical storm warnings were issued for multiple islands, fearing destructive flooding and potential wildfires.

The beloved Punalu'u Bake Shop on the Big Island sustained severe damage from mud inundation. Residents, some still recovering from previous floods in March, took precautions as the storm brought uncertainty and anxiety.