Flood Watch Issued For All of Big Island Through Weekend

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for all Hawaiian Islands for the next several days, persisting through Monday afternoon.

Significant flooding may occur due to the overflow of streams and drainages. Roads in several areas may be closed, along with property damage in urban or low lying spots due to runoff.

Isolated highways, such as the Belt Highway in the Big Island’s Ka´u District, may be closed in one or more locations resulting in long detours or even the isolation of communities. Landslides may also occur in areas with steep terrain.

A cold front will move over the islands from the northwest Thursday night and Friday, initially bringing a relatively short period of heavy rainfall to Kaua´i and O´ahu. The front is expected to stall near Maui County and the Big Island late Friday, bringing the potential for an extended period of heavy rainfall as a slow-moving kona low forms west of Kaua´i on Saturday. As the low develops, moisture associated with the front will spread back toward the west, bringing the threat of heavy rainfall to all islands, with this threat likely persisting well into next week.

Be prepared to take action if a flash flood warning is issued. If you experience heavy rain or rising waters, head to higher ground immediately.

A flood watch means that conditions are favorable for flash flooding. Flash Flooding is life threatneing. Do not cross fast flowing water in your vehicle or on foot.

A blizzard warning is also in effect for Big Island summits from 6 pm Friday to 6 am Sunday, with snow accumulations of up to 12 inches and winds of up to 100 mph expected. Travel is not advised on summits, as it will range from dangerous to impossible.