Tropical Storm Moke expected to bring up to 15 inches of rain in Hawaii

Tropical Storm Moke is expected to bring significant rainfall and strong winds to Hawaii this weekend, potentially causing dangerous flooding and mudslides, particularly on the Big Island. While the storm is not predicted to make direct landfall, its path just south of the islands will bring rain and wind starting Saturday night. The National Hurricane Center warned that the rainfall could lead to life-threatening conditions, especially in steep terrain and areas already saturated by Hurricane Lala last weekend. The Big Island experienced severe impacts from Lala, with some areas receiving over 3 feet of rain and wind gusts exceeding 80 mph. Although Moke's rainfall totals are not expected to be as high, they could still be dangerous given the already sodden ground. The Big Island could see 5 to 10 inches of rain, with up to 15 inches in some locations, while eastern Maui might receive 1 to 4 inches. Hawaii has activated its joint information center to coordinate public updates, a measure also taken for Hurricane Lala. The region's increased hurricane activity is attributed to an El Niño climate pattern, which warms Pacific waters, providing fuel for tropical cyclones. This pattern also reduces wind shear, allowing storms to develop and strengthen more easily.

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This rainfall may produce life-threatening flooding and mudslides for the windward and southeast Big Island, especially in steep terrain and over areas that were affected recently by Lala.