Tropical Storm Lala has brought a host of challenges to the Big Island of Hawaii, including road closures, power outages, and flooding. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the situation, along with personal commentary and analysis.
Road Closures
The storm has caused significant disruptions to transportation across the island.
Hāmākua
- Plumeria Street between Hawaii Belt Road and Lehua Street in Honokaʻa
- Laupahoehoe Road (one lane open)
Hilo
- Kamehameha Avenue near Manono Street and Ponahawai Street
- Pauahi Street near Kamehameha Avenue and Aupuni Street
- East Kawailani Street between Hoonani Place and Kamaliʻi Street
- Highway 19: single-lane closure Hilo Bayfront
Kaʻū
- Highway 11: both lanes closed between mile markers 57 and 62
- Highway 11: closed at mile markers 54 and 65
- Highway 11: both lanes closed between mile markers 66 and 68
- Highway 11: single-lane closure between mile markers 67 and 69
- Kaʻalaiki Road (Cane Haul Road) near Pahala
- Haʻao Springs Road near Nāʻālehu
North and South Kohala
- Highway 19: both lanes closed at mile marker 53.7
- Puako Beach Drive between Kawaihae and Waikōloa
- Mud Lane in Waimea
- Highway 250: closed between mile markers 2.5 and 21.5
- Highway 270: closed at mile markers 2 and 5
Puna
- Kahikopele Street between S. Kopua and Apele Road in Mountain View
- North Kulani Road in Mountain View
- Government Beach Road from Hawaiians Shores to Waa Waa Road (residents only)
- Kalapana-Kapoho Beach Road: closed at mile marker 14
Kona
- Māmalahoa Highway (Route 190), between Hina Lani Street and Pu‘ulani Drive, is open, but drivers should exercise caution due to low-hanging trees and debris.
- Route 190 between Kaiminani Drive and Hinalani Street is closed due to low-hanging power lines and debris.
Airports
The Hawaii Department of Transportation has closed Hilo International Airport and Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole. Security will remain in place at the terminals, and the Transportation Security Administration has closed checkpoints.
Brown Water Advisory
The Hawaii Department of Health has issued a brown water advisory due to potential pollutant levels in the water after storms or heavy rain. Residents are advised to avoid swimming, wading, or drinking from affected waters to prevent leptospirosis.
County Water Service
An Essential Needs Only Notice has been issued for all Department of Water Supply customers due to power outages. Essential needs are limited to drinking, cooking, or personal hygiene.
Hawaiian Electric
As of 8 p.m. Saturday, approximately 63,270 customers were without power in Hilo, Kona, Kohala, Hamakua, and Puna. Wind-toppled trees and high winds have caused significant damage to transmission lines.
Public Shelters
Hawaiʻi County has opened public shelters, and residents who need to evacuate should bring their own food, water, and essential items. Pets are also welcome.
Bus Service
Hele-On Kako‘o Paratransit Services ended at 8 p.m. on Friday, and all bus routes and Paratransit services will be canceled on Saturday and Sunday.
University of Hawai‘i and Hawaiʻi Community College
Both institutions have closed all campuses, offices, and off-campus locations on Saturday and Sunday, with plans to resume normal operations on Monday, pending facility evaluations.
Event Cancellations
Numerous events, including school-related activities and athletic events, have been canceled due to the storm.
Safety Tips
The National Weather Service emphasizes the importance of staying informed, keeping cellphones charged, and being prepared for potential emergencies. Residents should avoid flooded areas and seek higher ground if necessary.
State of Emergency
Hawaii Governor Josh Green declared a state of emergency on Thursday, ahead of the storm's arrival.
In summary, Tropical Storm Lala has caused widespread disruption on the Big Island, affecting transportation, power, and daily life. Residents and visitors should stay informed, follow safety guidelines, and be prepared for potential challenges as the storm continues to impact the region.
