Hurricane Lala closes in on Hawaii with torrential rain and powerful surf

Hurricane Lala strengthened to Category 1 as it approaches Hawaii, bringing strong winds, heavy rain (Big Island could see 10–25 inches, with higher totals possible), and dangerous surf across the islands. Forecasters warn of flash floods, mudslides, and power outages, with gusts up to about 50 mph in elevated areas and waves of 25–30 feet. The storm is expected to pass near South Point on the Big Island and weaken to a tropical storm by the time it nears Oahu, but impacts could be significant regardless.