Tropical Storm Lala Forms in Pacific, Hurricane Watch Issued for Big Island of Hawaii

Tropical Storm Lala has formed in the Pacific Ocean, prompting the National Hurricane Center (NHC) to issue a Hurricane Watch for the Big Island of Hawaii. The storm is forecast to bring heavy rain, high winds, and dangerous surf to the Hawaiian Islands starting late Friday. Rainfall totals of 5 to 10 inches, with up to 20 inches possible, could lead to flooding and mudslides. Lala is expected to strengthen and could approach hurricane strength as it nears the Big Island.