Hurricane Lala flooding traps thousands after Hawaii highway collapse

Thousands of residents on Hawaii's Big Island were left isolated after Hurricane Lala brought torrential rain and flooding that caused a highway to collapse.

(CNN)- Thousands of residents on Hawaii’s Big Island were left isolated after Hurricane Lala brought torrential rain and flooding that caused a highway to collapse.

The collapse left up to 2,500 residents trapped, with crews working to find a way to reconnect affected communities.

Pahala resident Deborah Funai Brown described the situation as “worrisome,” saying the community feels like an island within an island.

“It’s nice to see that the crews are out here and trying to find at least a way to hopefully get to Hilo,” Brown said.

Lala made its closest approach to the Big Island Saturday, dumping heavy rain that caused mountain streams to swell and flooded roads and highways.  Hawaii Gov. Josh Green said one area received 32 inches of rain, resulting in extensive damage that will require a major recovery effort. As the storm moved west, powerful winds battered communities across the Hawaiian Islands, knocking down trees and utility lines. Thousands of customers remained without power across the islands as of late Sunday. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi described Lala as a “very strong wind event” that brought down numerous trees.

The head of Hawaii’s National Guard said clearing fallen trees will be one of the biggest challenges crews face as they work to restore electricity.

Green said at least 100 homes were damaged or destroyed by the storm.