Hawaii braces for Hurricane Lana, first direct hit in 31 years

Hawaii is on high alert as Hurricane Lana, currently a Category 1 storm, approaches the islands, threatening a direct hit for the first time in 31 years. The hurricane is packing sustained winds of up to 120 kilometers per hour and is expected to bring torrential rainfall, potentially reaching 63 centimeters on the Big Island. Forecasters also warn of a storm surge that could raise sea levels by up to one meter.

A hurricane warning is in effect for the Big Island, while other areas including Maui County, Oahu, Kauai, and Niihau are under a tropical storm warning. Residents have been advised to prepare for dangerous conditions, including flash floods and landslides. The storm's projected path indicates it will make landfall or pass near the southern tip of the Big Island before moving westward across the archipelago.

Governor Josh Green has urged residents to take necessary precautions, warning of damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and dangerous surf across the state throughout the weekend. The approaching storm has already caused disruptions, with dozens of flights canceled and nearly 37,000 customers experiencing power outages as of Saturday afternoon. Meteorologists on the Big Island report that landslides have already blocked several roads, and downed trees have caused power lines to fall.

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Damaging winds, heavy rainfall, flash floods, and dangerous surf are possible statewide throughout the weekend.