Kathmandu— Hawaii is experiencing widespread flooding and power outages as Tropical Storm Laila passed south of the islands after weakening from a Category 1 hurricane on Sunday. While the Big Island avoided a direct landfall – something it hasn't seen in 155 years – strong winds and torrential rainfall continue to impact communities across Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Oahu, Kauai, and Niihau. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) had issued hurricane warnings for the Big Island on Saturday, but Laila drifted past, bringing dangerous conditions including waves up to one meter high and potential life-threatening mudslides.

Storm's Trajectory and Intensity

Hurricane Laila weakened to a tropical storm after passing south of Hawaii, though meteorologists warned that hurricane-force gusts were still possible. The storm edged the Hawaiian coast, avoiding direct impact on primary population centers but bringing significant weather challenges to the islands. The Big Island had not experienced a direct hurricane landfall in 155 years, and while this streak continued, the region was still heavily impacted by the storm’s effects.

Widespread Impacts and Damage

More than 60,000 households were without power across Hawaii as of Saturday evening, with three hospitals forced to switch to generator power. At least one person died in a car accident in the South Point area of the Big Island, and officials reported that 19 roofs had been lost due to the storm’s intensity. Pounding waves caused coastal erosion, while fierce winds bent palm trees and drove heavy rainfall inland.

Flooding and Landslide Risks

Up to one meter (three feet) of rain was expected on higher windward slopes, raising concerns about flash flooding and dangerous mudslides. The NHC advisory published Sunday morning indicated that some areas of the Big Island could receive up to 90 centimeters (35 inches) of rainfall. Christine Matsuda, a resident of Waimea on the northern side of the island, described how “big gusts every few minutes rattle the whole house”.

Tropical storm warnings remain in effect for several Hawaiian islands as dire conditions persist and residents brace for continued flooding and strong winds. Authorities are also concerned about the potential for catastrophic wildfires.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.