Tropical Storm Lala Forecast to Become Hurricane, Hurricane Watch Issued for Big Island of Hawaii

Tropical Storm Lala is gradually strengthening and is forecast to become a hurricane as it approaches the Big Island of Hawaii by early Saturday. A hurricane watch has been issued for the Big Island, indicating that hurricane conditions are possible within 48 hours. Life-threatening flash flooding, mudslides in high terrain areas, and large, dangerous waves (especially along southern-facing coastlines) are expected. Coastal flooding and significant beach erosion are also possible. Tropical storm watches are likely for other main Hawaiian Islands later today or Friday.