Hawaii Monitors Tropical Threat as Storm Development Likely
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued an alert for Hawaii as a tropical disturbance in the Pacific Ocean shows a 90% chance of developing into a tropical depression within the next 48 hours (as of August 19, 2026). This system, located east-southeast of the Hawaiian Islands, could bring tropical moisture and rain to the region, with some forecast models suggesting a potential impact on the Big Island. The storm, if named, will be called Moke. Meanwhile, another disturbance farther east in the Pacific has an 80% chance of development over the next seven days. The ongoing El Niño phenomenon, characterized by warming sea surface temperatures, is contributing to an active tropical storm season. Hawaii is still recovering from Hurricane Lala, which caused significant damage and flooding earlier this season. 
