Hawaii is currently dealing with the effects of Hurricane 'Lala,' which has caused heavy rainfall and landslides in multiple areas. Initial reports confirm one fatality as officials work swiftly to aid those affected.
Foreign news agencies report that the U.S. state of Hawaii is heavily impacted by Hurricane 'Lala,' which passed near the Big Island, bringing accumulated rainfall of up to 89 cm, causing flash floods and multiple landslides.
Preliminary reports indicate one death from a traffic accident, and many homes in the coastal communities of Naalehu and Waiohinu were swept from their foundations by floodwaters, prompting urgent search and rescue operations by authorities.
Meanwhile, Hawaii state officials have deployed about 180 National Guard soldiers to assist with relief efforts in the affected areas.
Reports also state that over 219,000 residents on the Big Island are without power, with three hospitals relying on backup generators. On Maui, some residents are experiencing water supply disruptions.
Hurricane 'Lala' had maximum winds of 91 mph before weakening to a tropical storm with winds around 65 mph, moving westward. Nevertheless, authorities maintain tropical storm warnings across all eight main Hawaiian islands due to continued heavy rainfall.
The Big Island's two main airports, Hilo International and Ellison Onizuka Kona International, temporarily closed before reopening, resulting in cancellations or delays for more than 190 flights.
This year, a strong El Niño phenomenon in the Pacific Ocean, combined with climate change effects raising sea surface temperatures, has contributed to more frequent and intense cyclones.
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Source:BBC