The NOAA satellite image from Saturday, August 22, 2026, illustrates Tropical Storm Moke advancing toward Hawaii across the Pacific Ocean. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has provided insights on the evolving weather situation in the region.
An advisory from the NOAA NWS National Hurricane Center issued late Saturday night reveals that Tropical Storm Moke is poised to bring additional flooding and strong winds to Hawaii. This comes as the state continues to recover from last week’s damage inflicted by Hurricane Lala.
The Big Island is currently experiencing significant impacts from Tropical Storm Moke, with forecasts indicating rain will continue to affect other islands through Monday. The advisory highlights the risk of life-threatening flooding and mudslides, especially in windward and southeast areas of the Big Island, where terrain deepens and areas were previously disturbed by Hurricane Lala.
Tropical Storm Moke’s center isn’t expected to make direct landfall, yet substantial rain of up to 15 inches could inundate the Big Island. Eastern Maui might face 3 to 6 inches of rain, adding to concerns for local residents and authorities.
This potential damage follows closely after Hurricane Lala’s devastating impact. Though Hurricane Lala did not make landfall, it previously unleashed over 30 inches of rain on parts of Hawaii, leading to severe floods and mudslides. Consequently, significant infrastructure in the area, including roads and bridges, has been destroyed. Floodwaters uprooted homes from foundations across several towns, exacerbating the crisis.
The aftermath has left over 8,000 people without power, with full restoration expected by September 8 according to Hawaiian Electric. Tragically, Hawaii Public Radio reported the death of a 90-year-old woman due to flooding caused by the hurricane.
Responding to these events, Hawaii Governor Josh Green signed a request seeking the White House’s declaration of emergency following Hurricane Lala’s impact. Similarly, Hawaii County Mayor Kimo Alameda advised residents on Sunday to brace for more exceptional conditions, encouraging active preparations amid expected strong winds and rains from Tropical Storm Moke. He urged locals to anticipate power and communication disruptions along with hazardous road conditions.