Health officials in Hawaii have issued a warning about the presence of deadly bacteria in flood waters following the passage of Hurricane Lane, now downgraded to a tropical storm. The storm has caused catastrophic flooding and landslides across the islands, raising concerns about waterborne diseases.
The Central Pacific Hurricane Center reported that Lane was weakening quickly, with sustained winds dropping to 70 mph by Friday evening. However, the National Weather Service warned of continued flooding and damaging winds, with some parts of the Big Island receiving nearly three feet of rain.
Emergency services have been responding to a rapidly spreading brush fire in western Maui, which has prompted highway closures and evacuations. Meanwhile, residents have been urged to avoid driving and to stock up on water, food, and medicines as a precaution.
President Donald Trump declared a state of emergency, with federal authorities on standby to provide support. More than 1,500 people have sought shelter, according to the Red Cross. The storm is the latest in a series of natural disasters to hit Hawaii this year, following significant volcanic eruptions from Kilauea.
