Hawaii flash flood sweeps vehicle after Hurricane Lala

A powerful flash flood on the island of Oahu sent a vehicle careening into the ocean early Thursday, captured on video that quickly spread across social media. The surge of water, triggered by the remnants of Hurricane Lala, overwhelmed a low‑lying roadway and lifted a sedan before it disappeared beneath the waves. Emergency responders arrived within minutes, but the vehicle was already swept out to sea, highlighting the rapid danger posed by sudden inundation.

Hurricane Lala, which had been classified as a tropical storm earlier in the week, began weakening as it tracked westward across the central Pacific. Nevertheless, heavy rains continued to batter parts of the Hawaiian archipelago, prompting the National Weather Service to maintain tropical storm warnings for several islands, including Maui, Molokai and Kauai. Officials warned residents to avoid low‑lying areas and to stay alert for flash‑flood conditions, especially in valleys and coastal roads where drainage is limited.

Local authorities urged motorists to exercise caution and to heed any road closures or detour signs. The Department of Transportation reported that a number of roads remained closed for inspection and cleanup after the floodwaters receded. No injuries were reported from the vehicle incident, but the event underscored the lingering hazards that can follow a storm even after wind speeds subside.

Meteorologists noted that while Lala is expected to lose tropical characteristics as it moves further west, its moisture plume will continue to generate heavy rain across the region for the next 48 hours. Residents are advised to monitor updates from the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency and to prepare for possible additional flooding.

The video of the flood, originally posted by a local news outlet, has been used by officials to illustrate the seriousness of flash‑flood threats during tropical systems. Authorities continue to assess damage and to advise the public on safety measures as the storm system progresses.

Original reporting: BBC News.