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Flood Watch Issued for Hawaii as Moke Brings 10-Inch Rain

8/23/2026

50 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Moke Brings Rain

National Hurricane Center warned Tropical Storm Moke will bring heavy rain to Hawaii’s Big Island.
The center predicts 5-10 inches of rain, with isolated peaks up to 15 inches.
A Flood Watch is in effect for Hawaii Island from late Saturday night through Monday afternoon.
Officials warn saturated soils from Lala could cause flash flooding, mudslides, and dangerous flooding from as little as 5 inches.

Summary

Green Declares Emergency

Gov. Josh Green requested a presidential emergency declaration for Hawaii, Maui, and Honolulu counties.
Over 250 Hawaii National Guard members, including ten high-water vehicle teams, were positioned statewide for Moke.
County officials opened shelters at Na‘alehu Elementary, Robert Herkes Gym, Pahoa Senior Center, and Kea‘au Armory.
Floodwaters uncovered graves at Na‘alehu cemetery, prompting state experts to secure the site and document remains.

History

Historical Context

In September 1992 Hurricane Iniki, a Category 4 storm and the first major hurricane since Iwa in 1982, struck Kauai as Hawaii’s costliest storm, causing $3.1 billion damage, destroying over 1,400 homes and killing seven people; it prompted the 1993 Hurricane Relief Fund. Those lessons shape Governor Josh Green’s 2024 emergency request as Tropical Storm Moke approaches.

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Moke Brings Rain

National Hurricane Center warned Tropical Storm Moke will bring heavy rain to Hawaii’s Big Island.
The center predicts 5-10 inches of rain, with isolated peaks up to 15 inches.
A Flood Watch is in effect for Hawaii Island from late Saturday night through Monday afternoon.
Officials warn saturated soils from Lala could cause flash flooding, mudslides, and dangerous flooding from as little as 5 inches.

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