Tropical Storm "Lala" in Hawaii has become a hurricane, with winds blowing at a speed of 120 kilometers per hour

Tropical Storm "Lala" has intensified into a hurricane, with winds blowing at a speed of 120 kilometers per hour.

The U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) said today that Lala has become a Category 1 hurricane and that its edge is expected to pass over or near the southern tip of the Big Island, Hawaii's largest island, by the end of Saturday.

The storm is expected to hit the islands of Oahu and Kauai by Sunday morning.

The NHC predicted total rainfall of about 200 to 300 millimeters on Maui and the lower parts of the Big Island, and 100 to 150 millimeters across the Hawaiian Islands, which have not suffered a direct hit from a hurricane in the last 155 years.

Meteorologists said up to 635 millimeters of rain could fall at higher altitudes, which could trigger mudslides in mountainous areas where people are living in makeshift homes.

Authorities urged residents of the area to quickly find shelter.

"This is a huge storm," said Hawaii Governor Josh Green.

A hurricane warning had already been issued for the Big Island, and a tropical storm warning was in effect for Maui County, which includes the islands of Maui, Molokai, Lanai and Kahulave.

Devastating floods and even forest fires caused by strong winds are possible on the islands.

Vanessa Almanza of the Honolulu Weather Service said dry and windy conditions outside the storm will increase the risk of wildfires.

Officials and residents were preparing for "Lalu" regardless of whether Hawaii would be directly affected.

A shelter is planned to open, and various events have been canceled.