The tropical cyclone search is drawing attention to Tropical Storm Moke, which was moving across the central Pacific as Hawaii prepared for heavy rain and gusty conditions. The Associated Press and the National Hurricane Center both reported the system’s position and forecast on August 22.
The National Hurricane Center placed Moke about 470 miles southeast of Hilo, Hawaii, with maximum sustained winds of 50 mph. The storm was moving west-northwest at about 12 mph. Forecast rainfall was generally 5 to 10 inches, with isolated totals of up to 15 inches in parts of the Big Island.
The tropical storm Moke Hawaii search does not mean that a coastal warning was in effect. The National Hurricane Center said there were no coastal watches or warnings at the time of its advisory. The forecast track kept the center south of the Big Island, while the system was expected to weaken gradually on Sunday.
The Associated Press reported that residents were also dealing with the effects of Tropical Storm Lala, including power outages and damage in parts of the islands. That separate storm had already caused disruptions, increasing attention on the next round of weather.
Forecasters urged people in affected areas to monitor official updates rather than relying on social-media maps or old forecast graphics. Heavy rain can create flash-flooding and dangerous travel conditions even when a storm does not make a direct landfall. Residents should follow instructions from local emergency managers and the National Weather Service as the forecast changes.
