Kathmandu— Tropical Storm Moke is advancing toward Hawaii, bringing the potential for further heavy rainfall and gusty winds to the Big Island which is still recovering from the effects of Hurricane Lala. The storm, which formed Friday, was located approximately 425 miles southeast of Hilo on Saturday and moving west-northwest at 12 mph with maximum sustained winds around 50 mph. While Moke is not expected to make a direct hit, forecasters predict significant rainfall – particularly on the Big Island’s windward and southeastern sides – could exacerbate existing damage and trigger new hazards like flooding and mudslides.

Storm Trajectory and Intensity

Moke formed in the Pacific Ocean on Friday and was located about 425 miles (680 kilometers) southeast of Hilo as of Saturday. The National Hurricane Center reported maximum sustained winds around 50 mph (85 kph), with the storm moving west-northwest at 12 mph (19 kph). Forecasters predict Moke will continue on a westward path near the islands through early Tuesday, though its impacts are expected to be less severe than those of Hurricane Lala.

Big Island Faces Renewed Threat

The Big Island is anticipated to experience the brunt of Moke’s rain and winds. Meteorologist Casey Oswant with the National Weather Service in Honolulu stated that while there will still be impacts, they are expected to be more limited than those caused by Hurricane Lala. Weekend rainfall predictions for the southeast and windward sides of the Big Island range from 5 to 10 inches (13 to 25 centimeters), with isolated areas potentially receiving up to 15 inches (38 centimeters). The rest of the island chain is expected to receive 1 to 2 inches (2 to 5 centimeters) of rain, though east Maui could see up to 4 inches (10 centimeters).

Ongoing Recovery from Hurricane Lala

Hurricane Lala recently caused significant damage across the Big Island, downing trees, damaging buildings and infrastructure, and leaving roads covered in mud and rocks. Two storm-related deaths were reported. As of Saturday, over 8,000 customers on the Big Island remained without power. The northeast coast of the island received a total rainfall of 43.54 inches (1.1 meters) during Lala, according to the weather service.

Preparation and Safety Concerns

Hawaii Governor Josh Green and other state officials urged residents to prepare for Moke by restocking essential supplies like food and medicine. Tiffany Edwards Hunt, a teacher in Keaau on the Big Island, described a sense of tension as communities brace for more rain after already experiencing severe flooding. Authorities warn that the anticipated rainfall could cause dangerous rip currents, life-threatening flooding, and mudslides, particularly in steep areas with saturated ground.

Residents are urged to closely monitor the storm’s progress and heed warnings from local officials as Moke approaches Hawaii.

(With inputs from AP)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.