Lala Update: What to Know After the Storm
Our take
The recent passing of Tropical Storm Lala serves as a stark reminder of the powerful forces shaping island life here in Hawaiʻi, and the resilience required to navigate them. While thankfully the storm’s center avoided a direct hit, the widespread impact – extensive power outages, damaged homes and businesses, and significant flooding – underscores the vulnerability of our communities. It’s a situation that resonates deeply with our readers, many of whom are drawn to the islands for their natural beauty and laid-back lifestyle, but also understand the inherent risks of living in a dynamic environment. We've always celebrated the visual splendor of Hawaiʻi, as showcased in The Winners of HAWAIʻI Magazine’s 2026 Photo Contest, and this event highlights the power and sometimes unpredictable nature of the very landscapes that inspire such breathtaking imagery. The immediate aftermath often requires a collective effort, a spirit of *malama* – to care for and protect – that’s woven into the fabric of Hawaiian culture, and one we deeply value here at Hanalei Bay Country Club.
The weakening of Lala from a Category 1 hurricane to a tropical storm before reaching the islands may have eased some immediate fears, but the damage inflicted by its outer bands, particularly on Hawaiʻi Island, demonstrates that even less intense storms can have devastating consequences. The disruption to daily life, the economic strain on businesses, and the emotional toll on residents are all significant. We’ve consistently championed the authentic experiences and local flavors that define the Hawaiian Islands, as seen in our latest digital issue It’s Here: Our 2026 SUMMER Digital Issue, and this situation inevitably impacts those experiences. From disrupted supply chains affecting local restaurants to the temporary closure of recreational activities, the storm's reach extends far beyond the immediate physical damage. Even something as seemingly simple as enjoying a SPAM musubi – a quintessential Hawaiian treat – can be affected, as illustrated by How to Get a Free SPAM Musubi on National SPAM Musubi Day, highlighting the interconnectedness of our community and its traditions.
Beyond the immediate recovery efforts, Lala's passage compels us to consider the broader implications of climate change and its impact on the Hawaiian Islands. Increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events are becoming a worrying trend, demanding proactive measures to enhance infrastructure resilience, strengthen community preparedness, and promote sustainable practices. The spirit of adventure and discovery that we champion at Hanalei Bay Country Club isn't about disregarding the environment; it’s about engaging with it responsibly and respectfully, understanding the delicate balance of island ecosystems, and actively contributing to their preservation. This requires a shift in perspective, moving beyond reactive responses to proactive planning, and prioritizing the long-term well-being of our communities and natural resources. The lessons learned from Lala, however painful, should inform our future actions.
Looking ahead, it’s crucial to monitor the evolving climate patterns and invest in strategies that mitigate the risks posed by increasingly severe storms. Will the state and local communities embrace a more proactive approach to disaster preparedness, incorporating sustainable infrastructure and community-led resilience initiatives? Or will we continue to react to events as they unfold, leaving our communities vulnerable to future impacts? The answer will shape not only the future of the Hawaiian Islands but also the very essence of the vibrant and adventurous lifestyle we strive to embody.
The Hawaiian Islands were battered by strong winds and heavy rain this past weekend as Tropical Storm Lala passed south of the state. Residents faced extensive power outages, damaged homes and businesses, and severe flooding.
Lala was a Category 1 hurricane earlier in its approach to Hawaiʻi but weakened to a tropical storm before passing south of the Islands. Its center did not cross over land, but its outer bands still caused significant damage, particularly along the southern and eastern areas of Hawaiʻi Island. Across the Islands, Lala washed out highways, wrecked structures and uprooted massive trees, making some roads impassable.
As the Islands move through the aftermath of the storm, dangerous hazards remain, including flooded areas and downed power lines. Residents and visitors are urged to use caution while cleanup and recovery efforts continue.
Ocean Safety
On Aug. 16, the Hawaiʻi Department of Health issued a statewide brown water advisory. Heavy rain and runoff can carry mud, debris, bacteria and other contaminants into the ocean. Even when the weather improves, water conditions can remain unsafe. The department advises beachgoers to stay out of waters that appear brown or murky, especially near streams, drainage outlets and areas affected by runoff. If the water is brown, turn around.
The Department of Health also advises the public to avoid swimming, wading in or drinking water from any freshwater streams or ponds to prevent leptospirosis, a bacterial infection caused by the Leptospira bacteria.
More information and water quality updates can be found on the Department of Health’s environmental portal.
Hiking Safety
Photo: Courtesy of The City and County of Honolulu
After heavy rains, especially during and after tropical storm or hurricane conditions, hiking can be dangerous. Trails can be muddy and slippery, while streams can be overflowing with rushing water. Flash flooding also happens rapidly, especially after a storm, when the ground is saturated and unable to absorb additional rainfall.
The Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are warning the public that risking your own safety while hiking during severe weather also puts first responders at risk.
In a news release on Aug. 17, the City and County of Honolulu shared that, following Lala, a group of hikers chose to venture out on Aug. 16 on a trail in Kaʻaʻawa on Oʻahu’s Windward Side. A woman was attempting to cross a stream when she slipped and injured her ankle. She was unable to walk out, so her friends called 911. HFD and EMS responded to the scene.
Four HFD units with 17 personnel and three EMS units with five paramedics and emergency medical technicians responded to the scene. The rescue took nearly three hours because of the difficult terrain and extensive extrication required to reach and remove the injured hiker and her two companions.
Streams and muddy trail conditions are dangerous even days after heavy rains have passed. Avoid hiking unless you are certain of the trail conditions and turn around if you encounter a difficult situation.
Road Safety
The City and County of Honolulu shared these reminders, which are helpful for drivers across Hawaiʻi:
- Never drive through flooded roadways.
- Treat nonfunctioning traffic signals as an all-way stop.
- Be aware that streetlights and lights in tunnels may still be out.
- Be cautious on roads as crews are still cleaning up debris, downed trees and power lines.
- When an emergency vehicle is approaching with its siren activated, drivers are required by law to move over and give the vehicle a clear path.
- Always adhere to directions from police officers.
- Avoid downed power lines.
- Plan for extra time due to nonfunctioning traffic signals.
- Pedestrians are reminded to also be aware when walking.
- Drive cautiously, carefully and with aloha.
Read on the original site
Open the publisher's page for the full experience