UPDATE: Flood Advisory for Big Island has Ended

UPDATE 11:35 p.m.:  The National Weather Service has ended the Flood Advisory for the Big Island North and East Forecast Zone which includes Hawi, Kukuihaele, Waimea, Honoka‘a, Laupahoehoe, Hilo, Kea‘au, Hawaiian Paradise Park and Pāhoa.

Conditions are still favorable for additional flooding and hazardous conditions of ponding and reduced visibility remain a threat throughout the evening and the coming morning. Exercise caution when driving.

UPDATE 8:22 p.m.: The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a Flood Advisory for the Island of Hawai‘i until 11:15 p.m.

At 8:11 p.m., radar indicated heavy rain along the northeastern slopes of the Big Island. Rain was falling at a rate of one to two inches per hour. Expect elevated water levels in rivers and streams within the advisory area.

Locations in the advisory include but are not limited to Hilo, Pa‘auilo, Waipi‘o Valley, Orchidlands Estates, Kukuihaele, Hawi, Pepe‘ekeo, Kea‘au, Kamuela, Honoka‘a, O‘okala and Hawaiian Paradise Park.

Original Post: The National Weather Service in Honolulu has issued a Flash Flood Warning for the Island of Hawai‘i until 8:15 p.m.

At 5:08 p.m., radar indicated heavy rain and thunderstorms upslope of Pololu and Waipi‘o Valleys. Rainfall rates up to three inches per hour have been observed, and Kawainui Stream has reached six feet.

Police report flooding along Kohala Mountain Road, Kawaihae Road and near Waimea.

Locations in the warning include but are not limited to Pololu Valley, Kohala Ranch, Hawi, Halaula, Kamuela, Kapa‘au, Waimanu Valley, Puako and Waipi‘o Valley.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS

• A Flash Food Warning means that flooding is imminent or occurring in streams, roads, and low lying areas. Move to higher ground now.
• Do not cross fast flowing water in your vehicle, or on foot. Turn around, don’t drown. This warning may need to be extended beyond 8:15 p.m. if heavy rain persists.

This Flash Food Warning replaces the previously issued Flood Advisory that was in effect for portions of the Island of Hawai‘i.