Hawaii declares state of emergency ahead of Tropical Storm Lala

LOS ANGELES: Hawaii declared a state of emergency on Thursday (Aug 14) as it prepared for Tropical Storm Lala, which could bring powerful winds, flooding and landslides this weekend.The Pacific storm is currently gaining strength, according to the National Weather Service (NWS), which expects it to become a hurricane as it approaches the US state's Big Island.Winds were blowing at around 80 kmh, with even stronger gusts.The storm could dump up to 63.5cm of rain in parts of the Big Island, the weather service added. Governor Josh Green declared a state of emergency in response to the threat, an administrative measure that frees up funds, resources and personnel in the event of damage."Tropical Storm Lala poses a serious threat to our state, particularly Hawaii Island - and we are taking act