Tropical Storm Moke, with maximum sustained winds of 45 mph as of Saturday evening, was moving west at 14 miles per hour, according to the Miami-based National Hurricane Center. The storm’s center was projected to pass south of the Big Island on Sunday and continue well south of the smaller Hawaiian islands early next week. Forecasters anticipate little change in strength over the weekend but expect weakening to begin by Sunday.

Recent Flooding Heightens Concerns

Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen issued a statement warning that even light to moderate rain and wind from Moke could trigger new flooding, debris, downed trees, roadway issues, and power outages. “Recent impacts from Tropical Storm Lala mean that even light to moderate rain and wind could trigger flooding, debris, downed trees, roadway issues and power outages,” Bissen said. The National Hurricane Center echoed this concern, noting that the rainfall could produce life-threatening flooding and mudslides, particularly in windward and southeast Big Island areas affected by Lala.

Just last weekend, Hurricane Lala brought wind gusts over 80 mph and torrential rain to the Big Island, with some areas receiving more than 3 feet of rain. Kapalua in Maui County alone was hit with 48 inches of rain over the weekend, but the heavy rainfall caused landslides and ongoing recovery efforts, as As of now, thousands of households remain without electricity, and the Wahiaua Dam water level has risen more than 20 feet due to Lala’s effects.

Preparedness and Community Fatigue

Experts and local officials are urging residents to prepare for another round of heavy rain. “We know many in our community are experiencing storm fatigue and still recovering from last weekend’s weather system, so mahalo for continuing to look out for one another and staying prepared — especially because we are up against an above-average hurricane season,” Bissen said.

John Brevedan, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, advised residents to consider leaving high-risk areas and staying with friends or family before the storm hits. “We’re asking our community to do the same,” Bissen added, highlighting the need for community solidarity.

Projected Path and Minimal Impact on Mexico

According to the National Hurricane Center, Moke is expected to remain south of the main Hawaiian islands, with its center passing south of the Big Island on Sunday and then south of the smaller islands early next week. This path suggests that the storm will not make direct landfall in Hawaii but could still bring heavy rain and strong winds to parts of the state.

In Mexico, where Moke’s potential impact had briefly raised concerns, authorities have confirmed that the storm is not expected to reach the country — the storm is currently located at 13.9 degrees north latitude and 147.2 degrees west longitude, about 1,600 kilometers southeast of Hilo, Hawaii. Its trajectory remains focused on Hawaii, and no significant changes are expected that would affect Mexico.

Residents in areas like Naʻalehu and the Kaʻū district on Hawaiʻi Island are already preparing for the storm’s arrival; Local businesses, including those participating in the Made in Hawaii Festival, are also adjusting their plans to account for the potential disruption.

Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda noted that Hurricane Lala had already caused $50 million in damage, urging residents to remain vigilant, “The request, signed Saturday, covers Hawaii County, Maui County, and the City and County of Honolulu,” Alameda said. He emphasized the importance of community preparedness, especially in the wake of the recent hurricane and ongoing recovery efforts.