Tropical Storm Lala forms, Hurricane Watch issued for the Big Island of Hawaiʻi

An estimated 6 million cubic yards of lava erupted and covered about 40% to 50% of the Halemaʻumaʻu Crater floor; An abrupt switch from deflation to inflation at the summit coincided with the end of Episode 53 fountaining, indicating another lava fountaining episode is likely.

Tropical Storm Lala has officially formed prompting the issuance of a Hurricane Watch for the Big Island of Hawaiʻi. A Hurricane Watch means that hurricane conditions are possible within the watch area. A watch is typically issued 48 hours before the anticipated first occurrence of tropical-storm-force winds, conditions that make outside preparations difficult or dangerous.

Chief John Pelletier emphasized a “zero tolerance” approach to the incident, initiating both internal and external audits in an effort to restore public trust. The external review will be conducted by Hawaiʻi County Police Chief Reed K. Mahuna to ensure transparency and objectivity.

Maui OnStage announced the cast and creative team for its upcoming production of “ʻAinakea,” an original play by Maui-based playwright James Nevius. The production will take the stage at the Historic ʻĪao Theater this October.

County of Maui officials are encouraging residents to prepare ahead of a potential tropical storm that is expected to strengthen before approaching the Hawaiian Islands as early as Friday night.

Hawaiian Electric is urging customers across Hawaiʻi, including Maui County, to prepare for a storm forecasters say could affect the islands as early as Saturday.

Condominium sales in Maui County continued to strengthen in July while single-family home sales cooled compared to a year earlier, according to data released by the Realtors Association of Maui.

“Item D-7 does not ask BLNR to award a 30-year water license to Mahi Pono. The item asks BLNR to authorize a public auction for a water license for certain government surface waters in East Maui,” according to DLNR.

After more than 17 years of planning, the proposed Haʻikū Fire Station has hit a legal stumbling block significant enough for council members to seek legal advice in a closed executive session and delay further consideration for two weeks.

Maui County Council members unanimously adopted Tuesday two resolutions approving special events permits for the 2026 Maui County Fair and the Aloha Classic Windsurfing Tournament.

The Maui Economic Recovery Commission, Healing Journey Team welcomes the community back for Paʻūpili Lahaina 3rd Saturdays, a monthly gathering dedicated to healing, connection, and strengthening the resilience of Lahaina.

There is no tsunami expected following a 5.1 earthquake reported at the Loihi Seamount, south of the Big Island. The quake occurred at 5:49 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2026.