Updated
Updated · CBS New York · Aug 18
Mudslide Destroys About 12 Big Island Homes as Lala Leaves 71,000 Without Power
Updated
Updated · CBS New York · Aug 18

Mudslide Destroys About 12 Big Island Homes as Lala Leaves 71,000 Without Power

3 articles · Updated · CBS New York · Aug 18

Summary

  • Waiohinu lost about a dozen homes when a mudslide tore through the Big Island community after former Hurricane Lala dumped torrential weekend rain.
  • More than 3 feet of rain fell in some areas and wind gusts topped 80 mph as Lala passed about 30 miles off the Big Island, washing out bridges and cutting off several communities.
  • A 90-year-old woman was found dead in nearby Naalehu after being reported missing during the storm; police said foul play was not suspected.
  • About 71,000 customers still lacked power Monday night, and Hawaii Island state offices, schools and courts will remain closed Tuesday while most facilities on Oahu, Maui and Kauai reopen.
  • Lala has moved west and regained hurricane strength over the central Pacific with 80 mph winds, though no hurricane watches or warnings remain in effect for Hawaii.

Insights

Even without a direct hit, how did Tropical Storm Lala manage to cripple Hawaii's power grid and sweep away homes so easily?
Did the downgrade to a tropical storm cause people to fatally underestimate Lala’s devastating flood and mudslide risks?
With commercial ports completely shut down by the storm, how long can Hawaii's isolated supply chain survive before critical shortages begin?