A developing system in the eastern Pacific is forecast to strengthen into Tropical Storm Lala by the weekend, bringing a deluge of rain and gusty winds that could trigger flash flooding across the Hawaiian Islands.
Forecast Details
The National Weather Service has issued a potential tropical cyclone advisory for the Big Island, projecting several inches of rain by Friday and the possibility of catastrophic flooding and mudslides in vulnerable valleys.
Authorities are monitoring the situation closely, as the storm’s trajectory could also disrupt air travel, complicating the return of football squads from California and Nevada who are slated to compete on the islands.
Football Games on the Line
The Hilo Vikings are set to host the Beaumont Cougars from Southern California on Thursday at 7 p.m. HST, a matchup that has drawn considerable attention after the Cougars traveled across the continent for the contest.
Three California‑based games are scheduled for Thursday, though only one takes place on the Big Island; the remaining fixtures are on Oahu, where the Mililani Trojans will make their season debut after climbing to No. 2 in the Hawaii Elite 12 rankings.
A Nevada team is slated to play on Oahu at 7:30 p.m. Friday, but the storm’s impact on return flights has left organizers weighing the prospect of postponement until conditions improve.
While the exact decisions will hinge on travel advisories and local safety recommendations, officials have indicated that cancellations are likely if the storm delivers the forecasted intensity.