Updated at 5:50 p.m. on Aug. 16, 2026.
Tropical Storm Lala is 170 miles from Līhue and moving west-southwest at 16 mph, but the storm’s outer bands still are bring rain and gusty winds to Kauai, according to the 5 p.m. advisory of the National Hurricane Center.
Tropical storm conditions, especially in gusts, are ongoing across portions of Kauai County, with the strongest winds occurring in areas of higher terrain.
Wind speeds atop mountains and on the windward and leeward slopes are often up to 30 percent stronger than the near-surface winds indicated in this advisory, and in some elevated locations could be even greater.
Kauaʻi has received between 10 and 15 inches of rain, with the heaviest showers Sunday afternoon and occuring across much of the island.
Flash flood watch
A Flash Flood Watch remains in effect until 6 a.m. for Kauaʻi due to the continued risk of flooding, particularly as moisture trailing Lala moves across the island.
The advisory said an additional 2 to 4 inches of rainfall is expected, with isolated additional totals around 6 inches. This rainfall may produce flooding and mudslides, especially in areas of steep terrain.
High surf advisory
A high surf advisory is in effect for east-facing shores of Kauaʻi and Niʻihau until midnight Sunday. Surf is expected to build significantly as Lala moves westward, with wave heights of 10 to 14 feet possible. Residents should remain alert for changing conditions and continue to monitor the latest forecasts and advisories, as impacts can occur well away from the storm’s center.
Water levels may remain elevated through the next tide cycle due to persistent large and dangerous wave activity.
Lala track
The storm is currently moving west-northwest, with a westward motion forecast through Tuesday night.
While winds are expected to gradually ease through Sunday evening, residents should remain vigilant as this remains an active severe weather event. As Lala moves farther west, conditions are expected to improve, with moderate to locally breezy trade winds returning
Brown water advisory
The State of Hawai’i Department of Health has issued a brown water advisory for Kauaʻi. Beach users should stay out of waters that appear brown or murky, especially following storms or heavy rain.
More information
For what you need to know about Lala on Kauaʻi, click here.
Visit the National Weather Service Honolulu forecast office website to find storm information specific to your area, such as possible inland advisories, watches and warnings along with being able to monitor your local forecast.
