Hawaii declares state of emergency ahead of Tropical Storm Lala

Hawaii declared a state of emergency on Aug 13 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 United States' National Weather Service, which expects it to become a hurricane as it approaches the US state's Big Island.



Winds were blowing at around 80km per hour, 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.