(REUTERS) Hawaii governor Josh Green warned on Friday (August 14) that Tropical Storm Lala could strengthen into a Category 1 hurricane before reaching the Big Island, with strong winds and heavy rain expected to cause damage.
Green described Lala as an "enormous storm" with maximum sustained winds of 65 mph (104 km/h) and said forecasts showed it continuing to intensify as it approached Hawaii.
The governor said some parts of the Big Island could receive up to 20 inches (50.8 cm) of rain, raising the risk of flooding and prompting officials to urge residents to remain cautious.
Green said the state had issued an emergency proclamation to quickly access resources, including $100 million from Hawaii's Major Disaster Fund, as authorities prepared for potential storm impacts.
Posted by: Alma Angeles/NET25 News
