A hurricane warning is in effect for Hawaii’s Big Island (Hawaiʻi Island) and a tropical storm watch is in effect for Maui as Tropical Storm Lala tracks toward the Hawaiian Islands. The National Hurricane Center is forecasting landfall conditions by 14 August, with the storm carrying sustained winds of over 75 mph and the potential to bring up to 20 inches of rain in some areas.
If you are currently on the Big Island or Maui, or planning to travel there in the next 48 to 72 hours, monitor the National Hurricane Center (nhc.noaa.gov) and Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (hawaiiema.gov) for updated tracking and shelter information.
Conditions and Risks
Big Island (hurricane warning): Dangerous surf, storm surge of up to four feet above normal tide levels, and flooding rain are the primary hazards. Areas on the east side of the island — including Hilo and Puna — are at higher risk from rainfall totals due to prevailing wind direction. Volcanoes National Park and coastal access roads may close.
Maui (tropical storm watch): Tropical storm conditions — sustained winds over 39 mph — are possible if the storm track shifts north. Rainfall accumulation and rough coastal surf are the main risks.
Oahu and Kauai are not under current warnings but should monitor for changes to the storm track.
Flight Disruptions
Airlines operating at Hilo International (ITO) and Kona International (KOA) on the Big Island have begun cancelling and rebooking flights. Maui’s Kahului Airport (OGG) may follow. Check directly with your airline for current status. Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest, and United all operate to the Big Island and Maui from Honolulu and mainland US hubs.
Passengers with cancelled flights are entitled to a full refund or rebooking under standard airline policy. If a hurricane warning is in effect at your departure or arrival airport, most airlines will waive change fees for affected dates. See our Hawaii vs Florida practical guide for general Hawaii flight and transfer context.
What To Do
- If on the Big Island, follow local emergency management guidance on shelter-in-place or evacuation orders.
- Secure or bring indoors any loose outdoor items at your accommodation.
- Avoid low-lying coastal areas and waterways during and after heavy rain.
- Contact your travel insurance provider — storm-related cancellations and hotel pre-payments may be claimable depending on your policy.
Our Big Island guide and Maui guide include details on geography, accommodation areas, and local emergency contacts. We will update this page as the storm track develops.