Tropical Storm Lala in Hawaii has turned into a hurricane, with winds blowing at 120 kilometers per hour

Tropical Storm 'Lala' has strengthened into a hurricane, packing winds of 120 kilometers per hour as it approaches Hawaii. The U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) has classified 'Lala' as a Category 1 hurricane. Its outer bands are forecast to move over or near the southern tip of the Big Island by Saturday evening, with the storm expected to impact the islands of Oahu and Kauai by Sunday morning.

The NHC predicts significant rainfall across the islands, with accumulations of around 200 to 300 millimeters on Maui and lower parts of the Big Island, and 100 to 150 millimeters across the rest of the Hawaiian archipelago. Higher elevations could see up to 635 millimeters of rain, raising concerns about potential mudslides in mountainous areas where some residents live in makeshift homes. Governor Josh Green described the storm as "huge."

Authorities have issued a hurricane warning for the Big Island and a tropical storm warning for Maui County. Residents are being urged to quickly find shelter. The potential for destructive floods and wildfires, exacerbated by strong winds in areas outside the storm's direct path, is a major concern. Officials and residents have been preparing for 'Lala' regardless of the direct impact, with shelters planned and various events canceled.

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This is a huge storm