Hawaii Begins Cleanup from Hurricane Lala Amid New Storm Threats

Hawaii has begun the cleanup process following Hurricane Lala. Meanwhile, forecasters are monitoring two new areas for potential storm development in the eastern and central Pacific. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) reports a high chance of one disturbance forming south of Mexico within the week. Another low-pressure area might develop southeast of Hawaii, potentially moving westward toward the central Pacific.

As Lala, now downgraded back to a tropical storm, moves away from Hawaii, its winds were recorded at a sustained maximum of 65 mph. The storm is currently on a westward path away from the state. Forecasters believe Lala might regain hurricane strength, but it is expected to stay over open waters.

The situation highlights an active Pacific hurricane season, contrasting with the quieter Atlantic basin. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts a below-normal season for the Atlantic, which presently has no active tropical cyclones. In contrast, the central and eastern Pacific have seen several named storms, with Lala being significant due to its impact on Hawaii.

Attention in Hawaii is focused on recovery efforts. Over the weekend, Lala moved parallel to the island chain, leading to damaging winds, heavy rainfall, flooding, high surf, and landslides. Governor Josh Green announced closures of state and county offices, schools, and judiciary offices due to the damage from Lala. He assured residents of ongoing efforts to access federal resources for recovery. U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono echoed these sentiments, urging caution and focusing on assistance for affected residents.

The National Weather Service (NWS) reported over 2 feet of rain in some areas, with Laupahoehoe receiving an exceptional 43 inches. According to the NHC’s recent Tropical Weather Outlook, the initial area of concern may develop several hundred miles south of Mexico by the week’s end. With increasingly favorable conditions, a tropical depression is likely to form over the weekend as the system moves west-northwestward, staying offshore. This disturbance has a 70 percent chance of developing over the next week.

A second potential disturbance may form southeast of Hawaii later in the week. Conditions are supportive of its gradual development into a tropical depression by week’s end or over the weekend. This system has a 50 percent chance of forming within the next seven days. While direct impacts on Hawaii are currently not anticipated, the second system’s proximity to the central Pacific basin warrants close attention. Forecasters emphasize uncertainty about its potential path and impact.

Lala’s threat to Hawaii is receding as it continues to move toward open ocean. While it could restrengthen, forecasts indicate it will remain away from the state, not turning back to Hawaii. Lala will likely be remembered for its significant impact, being one of the few hurricanes since 1957 to pass within 70 miles of the Big Island. It caused widespread flooding, dangerous surf, and damaging winds, illustrating Hawaii’s vulnerability to nearby tropical cyclones.

As recovery proceeds, attention returns to the Pacific with the new potential developments, as the active 2026 season persists. Continued monitoring is crucial for both residents and emergency managers.