Gov. Green says Moke impacts remain light, recovery efforts continue

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Gov. Josh Green says Tropical Storm Moke is bringing relatively light impacts to Hawaii Island as recovery from Hurricane Lala continues.

Read more Hawaii County to begin storm debris pickup in Kau

In a Sunday morning update, Green said the storm was producing rain over the Big Island, but conditions so far appeared less severe than initially feared.

Rainfall totals had been projected at 5 to 10 inches, though Green said officials were becoming more hopeful that amounts could come in lower.

The state prepositioned response vehicles, equipment and personnel ahead of the storm.

“It shouldn’t leave too much rain or wind damage, hopefully this time,” Green said. “Always better safe than sorry.”

Green also announced a mission called Trek 808, which will use C-17 aircraft to bring additional equipment to the islands to support storm response and preparedness.

Read more About 6K without power on Hawaii Island, HECO says Moke could delay remaining repairs

The governor said the extra resources are intended to help with current storms and future systems moving across the Pacific.

Meanwhile, power restoration continues on Hawaii Island following Lala.

Green said about 6,600 customers remained without electricity Sunday morning, while power had been fully restored on the other islands.

The state has also authorized hotel rooms for residents who cannot return to their homes, primarily in the Kau district.

“I know some people are still struggling, so help your neighbors, help your loved ones,” Green said. “We are getting through this storm.”

Read more Moke weakens to a tropical depression, rain and gusty winds still possible for Hawaii Island