Hawaii has started the cleanup process after Hurricane Lala, while weather forecasters monitor two new potential developments in the Pacific Ocean. These disturbances could lead to another named storm soon.
According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), one disturbance has a high chance of forming south of Mexico this week. Another low-pressure area might develop southeast of Hawaii, moving west toward the central Pacific. Lala, now downgraded to a tropical storm, continues moving west away from Hawaii, maintaining winds of 65 mph. Forecasters believe it may regain hurricane strength over open waters later in the week.
The increased storm activity in the Pacific contrasts with the calmer Atlantic hurricane season. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts below-normal activity in the Atlantic, where no tropical cyclones are currently active. In contrast, the Pacific has seen several storms this season, including Lala, which notably impacted Hawaii.
Recovery and Response
For Hawaii residents, the primary concern is recovery. Over the weekend, Lala paralleled the islands, causing wind damage, flooding, heavy rain, and landslides despite not making landfall. Hawaii’s Governor Josh Green announced the closure of all state and county offices, educational institutions, and courts on August 17 due to Lala’s severe impacts. U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono assured residents of ongoing support efforts, highlighting the focus on identifying federal resources to aid recovery.
Some areas in Hawaii recorded over two feet of rain, with Laupahoehoe receiving more than 43 inches, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) Weather Prediction Center.
Upcoming Weather Patterns
The NHC’s latest Tropical Weather Outlook identifies areas of potential formation. The first area could develop several hundred miles south of Mexico by the week’s end with a 70% chance of development within seven days. The second area might form southeast of Hawaii with a 50% chance of development, progressing into the central Pacific.
Currently, the NHC forecasts no direct impacts on Hawaii from these disturbances. However, the second system may attract attention due to its potential path through the central Pacific basin, including Hawaii. Forecast accuracy remains low for these predictions, so trajectories and strength could change.
Lala’s Impact and Historical Significance
Hurricane Lala will likely be remembered as a significant event for Hawaii, being the fifth hurricane since 1957 to come within 70 miles of the Big Island. It caused widespread flooding and damaging winds, showcasing Hawaii’s vulnerability to nearby tropical cyclones. With recovery from Lala ongoing and new disturbances emerging, Hawaii residents and emergency managers continue to closely monitor the Pacific Ocean during this unusually active 2026 hurricane season.