Hawaii is known for its beautiful beaches, tropical climate, and general low risk of experiencing major hurricanes. But as of recent events, hurricanes have been hitting the islands more often. The hurricanes Lala and Lowell have brought dangerous weather to the state, causing flooding, strong winds, power outages and most importantly, damage to homes and roads.
Hurricane Lala had reached the Big Island on August 15th, 2026 and was reported to be Category 1. According to the National Weather Service, Lala made a direct hit near South point on the 15th. The storm produced damaging winds and severe flooding, in the Kau District of the Big Island. Flooding had also been reported within the islands of Oahu and Maui.
The effects of Lala were hazardous due to the amount of rainfall that was produced. The U.S. The Geological Survey had reported that one location recorded 32.1 inches of rainfall in one day. Flooding and debris flow had damaged several buildings, in which two people were reported killed in the storm.
Only a few weeks later, Hurricane Lowell had approached the Hawaiian islands. Lowell passed west of Kauai and Niihau on September 7th, but the storm still produced significant impacts across the islands. The National Weather Service recorded wind gusts of up to 92 mph at Puu Lua on Kauai. Areas of Kauai had also received extreme rainfall that was reported over 21 inches and more than 18 on Mount Waialeale.
Lowell caused flooding that downed trees and power lines, while damaging roads and put a pause to residents’ daily life. According to Direct Relief, thousands of residents remained without power after the storm, while emergency organizations provided supplies such as water, food and medicine.
The unusual activity has raised several questions about why Hawaii has experienced multiple damaging storms this year. Hawaii typically avoids direct hurricane impacts because of its location in the Pacific and the usual patterns that steer storms away from the islands. However, weather experts have pointed to unusual Pacific conditions this year, including the change from El Nino, as the main factor contributing to this increased hurricane activity.
For Hawaii residents, the 2026 hurricane season has shown how quickly a tropical storm can affect communities. Although hurricanes are not a new threat to the islands, the back to back impacts of Lala and Lowell have created significant challenges for residents, emergency workers and local businesses. As recovery continues, Hawaii is facing the task of repairing damaged buildings and homes while having to prepare for the unknown of another hurricane.
Although this article is short compared to the rest online right now, it is crucial to care for the islanders, and send them support. If you see a GoFund me or something out there to donate, be sure to look into it, and realize what everyone is going through and how much they’ve lost. Additionally, if wanting to read more, make sure to click on the embedded links, to see the hurricane behind the islanders eyes.
