Tropical Storm Lala Causes Devastation on Hawaii’s Big Island Tropical storm Lala struck Hawaii’s Big Island, leaving a trail of destruction that included at least 100 damaged homes and bridges, widespread power outages affecting over 100,000 residents, and one confirmed fatality. The storm, which was downgraded to a tropical storm before making landfall, brought torrential rains and strong winds that flooded low-lying areas, swept away structures, and disrupted critical infrastructure. According to AccuWeather, some regions recorded rainfall exceeding 3.5 feet in 48 hours, contributing to the extensive damage. Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda described the impact as “devastation” in certain areas, emphasizing the severity of the storm’s aftermath. The storm’s remnants caused significant disruptions, including the collapse of a major highway in the Big Island’s southeast, which blocked access to Pahala, the region’s only hospital. This development raised concerns about emergency response and medical care for affected communities. The storm’s toll extended beyond physical damage. Hawaiian Electric reported that up to 111,000 customers lost power, with utility crews working to restore electricity. However, rural areas faced prolonged outages, potentially lasting weeks. Helicopters and drones were deployed to assess damage in remote, mountainous regions where access was limited. The storm also claimed a life. A woman reported missing in Naalehu was found dead on Monday, though details about the incident remain unclear. Emergency management director Randy Collins warned that dangers persisted even after the storm passed. “Many casualties often happen after the disaster,” Collins said, citing risks such as working with heavy machinery, downed power lines, and unsafe conditions during cleanup efforts.#josh_green #tropical_storm_lala #hawaii_big_island #kimo_alameda #randy_collins
