Hawaii Braces for Second Storm in a Week

Tropical Storm Moke is currently moving towards Hawaii, bringing the threat of strong winds and heavy rainfall. This comes only a week after Hurricane Lala caused significant flooding and power outages across the islands. Residents are being urged to prepare for Moke's arrival.

Moke is projected to pass south of Hawaii Island, the largest in the archipelago, overnight. As of Saturday, it was located approximately 425 miles south of Hilo, moving west-northwest with sustained winds of 50mph.

While Moke is not expected to make a direct hit, Hawaii Island is still recovering from Hurricane Lala, which caused widespread power outages affecting 130,000 customers and resulted in at least one fatality due to severe flooding.

Hawaii Governor Josh Green has advised residents to stockpile necessary supplies and has authorized additional accommodations for those needing safety. Power restoration efforts are ongoing, with full restoration anticipated by September 8.

Meteorologists predict Moke will continue its path near the islands through early Tuesday, with the southeast and windward sides of Hawaii Island likely to receive between 5 to 10 inches of rain, and some isolated areas possibly up to 15 inches. Eastern Maui may receive 3 to 6 inches.

Governor Green cautioned that the heavy rainfall may persist, as another storm front is anticipated about a week after Moke, indicating a prolonged period of challenging weather for Hawaii.