Tropical Storm Moke Brings Up to 15 Inches of Rain to Hawaii

Storm Overview and Expected Impacts

Forecasters are tracking Tropical Storm Moke as it moves north‑westward across the central Pacific. The system is expected to make its closest approach to the Hawaiian Islands later this week, bringing heavy rain, gusty winds, and a heightened risk of flash flooding. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts a storm total rainfall of up to 15 inches in the most exposed areas, a level that could overwhelm already saturated soils.

Meteorological Details

Moke originated as a tropical disturbance near the equator on Monday and has since organized into a tropical storm with sustained winds near 50 mph. The central pressure has dropped to approximately 1002 millibars, indicating a strengthening system. The storm’s forward speed is projected to slow as it reaches the Hawaiian archipelago, a factor that typically increases rainfall totals because the storm spends more time over a given area.

Projected Rainfall Distribution

Models show the greatest amounts of rain will fall on the windward sides of Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island. Coastal valleys such as the Pali on Oahu and the Hana region on Maui could see localized totals exceeding the 12‑inch mark. Kauai, while slightly farther from the storm’s core, is still expected to receive 6 to 8 inches, enough to cause river rises and possible overflow of small streams.

Communities at Risk

Islands Most Vulnerable

• Oahu – especially the neighborhoods of Haleiwa, Kane‘ohe, and the windward ridge.
• Maui – the Hana region, Kihei, and the eastern slopes of Haleakala.
• Big Island – Hilo, Pahoa, and the saddle areas between the volcanoes.
• Kauai – the north shore and inland valleys such as Waimea.

Potential Flood Zones

Historical flood maps indicate that low‑lying urban districts, agricultural fields, and river floodplains will be most susceptible. The Wailuku River on Maui and the Anahulu River on Oahu are already running high after recent rains, and any additional runoff could trigger rapid rises that threaten homes and roadways.

Ongoing Recovery from Hurricane Lala

Recent Damage Assessment

Hawaii is still repairing the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Lala, which struck the islands two months ago with record‑setting rainfall and wind. Lala left thousands of residents without power, caused landslides that closed highways, and damaged water treatment facilities on Oahu and the Big Island. The University of Hawaii continues to monitor soil stability in areas where Lala’s rains triggered landslides.

How Moke Could Complicate Relief Efforts

Emergency crews are still deploying resources to clear debris and restore utilities. An additional storm that brings another 10 to 15 inches of rain could undo much of the progress made, especially if roads become impassable again. Floodwaters may also compromise temporary shelters that were set up after Lala, putting vulnerable populations at risk.

Official Advisories and Preparedness Measures

Emergency Alerts and Shelters

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for the windward sides of all major islands and a high surf advisory for the south‑facing coasts. Residents are encouraged to stay tuned to local radio, television, and the official state alert system. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has pre‑positioned additional supplies at regional distribution centers to support displaced families.

Tips for Residents and Visitors

• Secure loose outdoor items such as patio furniture, grills, and planters.
• Move valuable possessions to higher floors if you live in a flood‑prone area.
• Stock up on non‑perishable food, bottled water, and essential medications for at least three days.
• Charge all mobile devices and keep a battery‑powered radio handy.
• Avoid driving through flooded roads; turn around if you encounter standing water.
• Follow evacuation orders promptly and use designated routes only.

Historical Context of Tropical Storms in Hawaii

Past Storms with Similar Rainfall

Hawaii has experienced several tropical systems that delivered double‑digit rainfall totals. In 2018, Tropical Storm Lane produced more than 12 inches of rain on Oahu, leading to widespread flooding and landslides. Similarly, Hurricane Iselle in 2014 dumped over 14 inches on the Big Island, causing river overflows and road closures. These events illustrate the archipelago’s vulnerability when a storm stalls near the islands.

Lessons Learned

After each storm, agencies have refined evacuation protocols, improved flood‑risk mapping, and invested in resilient infrastructure such as higher‑elevation bridges and reinforced seawalls. Community outreach programs now emphasize the importance of personal emergency kits and the use of the state’s alert app, which has seen a surge in downloads after recent weather events.

Residents and visitors should remain vigilant as Tropical Storm Moke approaches. By staying informed, securing property, and heeding official guidance, the islands can reduce the likelihood of severe flooding and protect the hard‑won recovery progress made after Hurricane Lala.