Tropical Storm Moke has developed and is poised to deliver significant rainfall to Hawaii's Big Island, just days after the region was battered by Hurricane Lala. The storm, which strengthened Friday with 45 mph winds, is expected to bring life-threatening flooding and potential mudslides.

The Big Island is particularly vulnerable as residents are still recovering from the impacts of Hurricane Lala, which caused widespread damage, including destroying or damaging over 100 homes and cutting off some communities. The governor reported that the earlier hurricane also dumped substantial rain, with some areas receiving over 40 inches, and thousands on the Big Island remain without power.

Moke is forecast to produce rainfall totals of 5 to 10 inches across the Big Island, with isolated amounts reaching up to 15 inches. These heavy rains could exacerbate existing flood conditions and increase the risk of mudslides, especially in steep terrains and areas already impacted by Lala.

The storm is expected to move south of the Big Island, with rain beginning Saturday night and intensifying through Sunday and into Monday. While Moke is anticipated to remain weaker than Hurricane Lala, the cumulative effect of back-to-back storm systems raises concerns for the island's infrastructure and residents.

For the rest of the Hawaiian Islands, rainfall totals are expected to be less severe, ranging from 1 to 3 inches, with maximum amounts of 5 inches anticipated over the weekend and into early next week. These amounts could still lead to localized flooding in vulnerable areas.

Hurricane Lala, a Category 1 storm, passed south of the Big Island on Sunday, leaving a trail of destruction. The storm's heavy rainfall and high winds tested the resilience of communities across the state, highlighting the challenges faced by Hawaii in the face of increasingly severe weather events.

Authorities are urging residents on the Big Island to remain vigilant and prepare for potential flooding and mudslides. The National Weather Service has issued flood watches and warnings, emphasizing the danger posed by the anticipated rainfall. Recovery efforts from Hurricane Lala are ongoing, and the arrival of Tropical Storm Moke adds another layer of complexity to the situation.

As the region braces for Moke's impact, questions remain about the adequacy of infrastructure to withstand repeated severe weather events and the long-term implications for disaster preparedness in Hawaii.