Flood advisory previously issued for portions of North Kona and South Kohala

Parts of North Kona and South Kohala were being drenched by heavy rainfall that could cause roads, poor drainage areas and streams to flood Friday afternoon and evening.

A flood advisory was in effect until 6 p.m. May 16 for parts of West Hawai’i as a result.

National Weather Service radar at 2:57 p.m. indicated heavy rain over North Kona and South Kohala, falling at up to 1 inch per hour in some locations.

Forecasters at the National Weather Service forecast office in Honolulu report places that would experience flooding included:

• Kailua-Kona.
• Captain Cook.
• Waikōloa.
• Puʻu Anahulu.
• Hōlualoa.
• Kalaoa.
• Hōnalo.
• Puakō.
• Pōhakuloa Training Area.
• Kahaluʻu-Keauhou.
• Kainaliu.
• Kealakekua.
• Hōnaunau.
• Mauna Lani.
• Waikiʻi.
• Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport.

The public was advised to stay away from streams, drainage ditches and low-lying areas prone to flooding.

“A flood advisory means minor flooding is imminent or occurring,” Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense said in a Friday afternoon message.

The county emergency agency added because of the flood advisory the public was further advised:

• Flooding can be life-threatening. Residents in flood prone areas should remain alert for flooding conditions.
• Drive with caution. Be on the alert for runoff, ponding of water, debris and poor visibility.
• Do not attempt to cross flowing water in a vehicle or on foot; turn around, don’t drown.
• Remember: if lightning threatens your area, the safest place to be is indoors.

Visit the National Weather Service Honolulu forecast office website for the latest severe weather advisory information.

News reporter Nathan Christophel contributed to this story.