Hurricane Lala Strikes Hawaii's Big Island, Followed by Tropical Storm Moke

Hurricane Lala struck Hawaii's Big Island around August 15-16, 2026, bringing heavy rain and strong winds to the region. The storm caused flash flooding, including an incident in which a vehicle was swept away by floodwaters, according to video footage reported by BBC News. In response to the storm, Hawaii Governor Josh Green's office announced closures of nearly all state and county government offices, including all Hawaii public schools, courts and Judiciary offices statewide; affected state employees were told not to report to work and were granted administrative leave. Following Lala, tropical storm warnings remained in effect for parts of Hawaii as the system progressed westward across the islands. About a week later, on August 23, Tropical Storm Moke approached Hawaii from the south, with forecasters predicting heavy rains and strong winds arriving Saturday evening into Sunday. As with Lala, the Big Island was expected to bear the brunt of Moke's impact, passing south of a direct hit. Weather officials warned of renewed flooding and mudslide risks, particularly in areas already affected by the earlier storm. The extent of damage, injuries, or the current status of storm recovery from Hurricane Lala was not detailed in available reporting. Specific rainfall totals, wind speeds, and the ultimate track and impact of Tropical Storm Moke as it passed the islands remain unconfirmed. It is also unresolved whether the government office and school closures extended beyond the initial closure day or affected additional Hawaiian islands beyond the Big Island.