More than 180,000 utility customers across Hawaii remained without electricity on Sunday after Hurricane Lala weakened to a tropical storm following a powerful passage near the islands.

Lala, which strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane before approaching Hawaii, brought strong winds, torrential rainfall and severe flooding. Although the storm did not make a direct landfall, officials reported significant damage across several communities.

Widespread Power Outages

About 183,123 customers were without power as of Sunday afternoon, according to power outage data cited by Reuters. On Oahu, the state’s most populous island, outages had fallen from more than 220,000 to roughly 130,000 as crews began restoration efforts.

Hawaiian Electric said downed trees, flooded roads and storm damage were complicating repair operations.

Homes Damaged and Flooding Reported

Hawaii Governor Josh Green said authorities had received reports of at least 100 homes damaged, while two homes were swept away by flooding. Emergency shelters were opened, with approximately 117 people seeking refuge as conditions deteriorated.

Officials described the flash flooding as unprecedented in some areas and urged residents to remain indoors while emergency crews assessed damage and cleared roads.

Lala Weakens but Threat Remains

By Sunday afternoon, Lala had maximum sustained winds of about 65 mph (105 km/h) and was moving westward toward southwest Kauai County. A tropical storm warning remained in effect for Kauai County, while warnings for Maui and Oahu had been lifted.

Authorities warned that flooding, dangerous surf and other hazards could continue even as the storm moved away. Hawaii’s airports had reopened, although travelers were advised to check directly with airlines for possible disruptions.

Recovery operations are expected to continue as crews work to restore electricity, clear debris and assess the full extent of damage across the islands.