Flash Flood Warning for Big Island Extended

The Flash Flood Warning for the island of Hawai‘i has been extended until 12:45 a.m.

At 9:15 p.m., radar and rain gauges continue to show areas of heavy rain along the windward and southeast sections of the Big Island, with the heaviest rains focusing upslope of Hilo in the Wailuku River valley, and along the slopes of Hāmākua coast from Laupahoehoe to Honoka‘a.

Flash flooding is ongoing across the warned area, with Hawaii County Civil Defense reporting that evacuations are occurring in the Reeds Island area of Hilo along the Wailuku River. Water levels on the Wailuku River and Honoli‘i Stream remain very high, with the level on the Wailuku River
having risen about 5 feet between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Saddle Road is currently closed near the 10.5 mile marker above Hilo due to a landslide. Bands of heavy rain will continue moving into the Big Island during the night.

THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION. AVOID UNNECESSARY TRAVEL

Locations in the warning include but are not limited to Hilo, Na‘alehu, Pa‘auilo, Waipio Valley, Orchidlands Estates, Kukuihaele, Haw‘i, Pepe‘ekeo, Kea‘au, Honoka‘a, O‘okala and Hawaiian Paradise Park.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

A flash flood 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.